While multiple regions across Niger battle COVID-19, certain areas are simultaneously experiencing a disturbing polio resurgence. Though these viruses spread differently—COVID-19 through respiratory droplets and polio via contaminated water, undercooked food, or poor hygiene—their early symptoms often overlap, including fever, headaches, and coughing.

“Niger successfully eradicated prior polio outbreaks through large-scale vaccination campaigns in 2019. However, these efforts have been suspended due to COVID-19 containment measures that prioritize social distancing and hand hygiene,” explains Dr. Pascal Mkanda, Coordinator of the Polio Eradication Program for the Africa region.

In December, Niger, along with Kenya and Mozambique, declared victory over 24-month-long polio outbreaks. Yet this new case—a vaccine-derived poliovirus—has paralyzed two children in Niamey and Tillaberi, representing an unrelated transmission chain from last year’s resolved outbreak.

“Polio will keep circulating”

“Polio will inevitably continue spreading, potentially paralyzing more children, as high-quality vaccination campaigns cannot proceed under current pandemic restrictions,” warns Dr. Mkanda.

With Niger now joining 14 other African nations battling vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks—including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Togo, and Zambia—weak routine immunization coverage, vaccine hesitancy, logistical barriers, and suboptimal campaign quality have all hindered comprehensive child protection efforts.

Though mass vaccination activities remain postponed, the Africa Regional Polio Eradication Program is working to maintain essential disease surveillance. While no cure exists for polio, prevention through vaccination remains straightforward and effective—a critical focus for Niger and other African nations racing to boost child immunity and prevent paralysis.