The State of New York decides to act against polio. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency against polio on Friday, with a view to increasing vaccination rates as the virus continues to spread across the country, US television network CNBC reported within certain communities.
Also according to the chain, the virus was detected in samples of wastewater, within four counties of the New York area, and in the city itself. Poliomyelitis, which can cause paralysis in humans, has worried authorities for several weeks.
A first case in July
An unvaccinated adult had contracted the disease in July and was paralyzed. The first known infection in the United States in nearly a decade, prompting heightened surveillance of sewage.
Specifically, with this state of alarm, new actors will be able to administer the vaccine, such as pharmacists, midwives or emergency services. The goal is to increase the vaccination rate as quickly as possible, which is particularly low in certain New York counties, such as Rockland, where it is only 60%, or Orange, where it does not exceed 58%.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett asked unvaccinated people to do so as soon as possible.
“On polio, we just can’t roll the dice,” he said. “I urge New Yorkers not to accept any risk. Polio vaccination is safe and effective, protecting almost everyone who receives the recommended doses from the disease.”
The New York state average for polio vaccination is about 79%, according to the health department.
Source: BFM TV
