No polio cases reported, but risk remains
Summary
Nepal reported zero confirmed polio cases, but health experts warn the virus could still enter through open borders and weak surveillance. Authorities are intensifying immunization and monitoring efforts to protect the country’s polio-free status.
Key Points
- On World Polio Day, health experts urged continued vigilance to keep Nepal polio-free despite no confirmed cases in the country.
- Prof. Dr. Shrijana Shrestha said sustained immunization, surveillance, and outbreak response systems are essential to prevent reintroduction of the virus.
- Government data show 579 suspected polio cases were tested in 2025, but none were confirmed, while Nepal’s last polio case was recorded in 2010.
- Special vaccination campaigns have been carried out in Kathmandu and border areas with India to reduce the risk of importation.
