The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Tuesday that Madagascar has successfully halted the outbreak of variant type 1 polio, with no new cases reported since September 2023. This milestone underscores the country’s progress in its fight to eradicate polio, a highly infectious viral disease that primarily threatens children under five and unvaccinated adults. The outbreak, which began in 2020, affected 30 districts across 13 regions, peaking in September 2023 with 287 cases, including 45 cases of acute flaccid paralysis, 44 community cases, and 198 positive wastewater detections.

Polio, transmitted through contact with infected feces or contaminated food and water, can invade the nervous system, leading to paralysis in severe cases. Madagascar’s response, supported by robust immunization campaigns and surveillance, has been pivotal in curbing the outbreak. Mialy Rajoelina, Madagascar’s First Lady and immunization ambassador, hailed the achievement as a “hopeful sign” of progress in immunization efforts. She urged sustained action, emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness and collaboration to ensure “every child has a healthy future.”

The WHO commended Madagascar’s efforts, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance to prevent resurgence. Strengthened vaccination programs and wastewater monitoring were critical in stopping the spread, according to a WHO statement. Web searches and X posts, including a WHO Africa update from May 20, 2025, confirm the outbreak’s end, with no conflicting reports. Madagascar’s success serves as a model for other nations battling polio, reinforcing the global push toward eradication through coordinated health interventions and community engagement.