By Ellen Hambuba
Health authorities in Lusaka have detected Poliovirus Type Two in an environmental sample.
Acting Health Minister Cornelius Mweetwa said the virus was confirmed through laboratory tests following routine environmental surveillance conducted in collaboration with local and international health partners.
Speaking during a media engagement in Lusaka, Mr. Mweetwa explained that while no clinical cases have been identified, the presence of the virus in the environment indicates active circulation within the community, requiring immediate preventive action.
He said the strain detected closely matches one previously identified in Namibia and linked to Angola, highlighting ongoing transmission within the Southern Africa sub-region.
Government has since activated emergency response measures, including intensified surveillance to detect acute flaccid paralysis, enhanced community sensitisation, and targeted vaccination campaigns to immunise children at high risk, regardless of their previous vaccination status.
Mr. Mweetwa added that the Ministry is strengthening routine immunisation services nationwide to maintain high coverage. He urged the public to observe strict hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing with soap, and to cooperate fully with health workers during vaccination campaigns.
He reassured the nation that early detection demonstrates the effectiveness of Zambia’s surveillance systems.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has commended Zambia for its swift response. WHO Country Representative Clement Lasuba said Government’s actions are in line with International Health Regulations and global best practice. He noted that polio remains a public health threat requiring a comprehensive and coordinated response.
Dr. Lasuba added that as part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, WHO is working alongside UNICEF and other partners to support Zambia’s immediate and effective response.
Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Kennedy Lishimpi confirmed that there are currently no human cases of polio in Zambia. He said surveillance teams have been activated and are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in provinces bordering neighbouring countries where similar strains have been detected.
Dr. Lishimpi said targeted vaccination campaigns will be conducted in high-risk areas to ensure children are fully protected against the virus and to prevent any possible spread.
– ZNBC