Somalia: CDC expresses concerns over polio outbreak

Event

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel notice for Somalia due to an ongoing polio outbreak. According to health officials, at least four cases have been confirmed in 2018 as of late July. The affected areas are Mogadishu, Hiran, and Middle Shabelle.

Context

Poliomyelitis is an acute communicable disease caused by a human enterovirus of the Picornaviridae family. Poliovirus is transmitted from one person to another by oral contact with secretions or fecal material from an infected person. Most poliovirus infections cause asymptomatic viral replication that is limited to the alimentary tract. However, following an incubation period of approximately 7-10 days (although it can range 4-35 days), about 24 percent of those infected develop clinical signs such as fever, headache, and sore throat (considered a minor illness).

Advice

Individuals in Somalia are advised to verify their vaccination status and monitor developments to the situation.