GHealth News – The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the prequalification of an additional novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2), marking an important step forward in the global fight to eliminate polio.
Prequalification confirms that the vaccine meets international standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness. This designation enables United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, to procure and distribute the vaccine for immunization campaigns worldwide.
The newly approved nOPV2 vaccine has been developed to be more genetically stable than earlier oral polio vaccines. This improved stability reduces the risk of vaccine-derived outbreaks while strengthening efforts to interrupt virus transmission.
The announcement follows a recent commitment by global leaders to mobilize $1.9 billion to support eradication initiatives. The funding aims to safeguard approximately 370 million children annually, even as health programs face financial pressures and budget constraints.
Although polio has been eliminated in many parts of the world, the virus continues to circulate in certain regions. Health authorities say the expanded use of improved vaccines will be critical to achieving lasting eradication.
(Reuters)