Alarming VDPV Case in Kerala: Immune-Deficient Child Transmits Polio Virus to Healthy Father – Study Urges Urgent Surveillance

A recent case in Kerala, India, highlighted the transmission of vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) from an immune-deficient child to a healthy adult, raising concerns about the re-emergence of polio. The case was discovered during a study by ICMR and WHO, which screened children with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) for poliovirus excretion. The study underscores the need for ongoing surveillance of immunodeficient VDPVs (iVDPVs) to prevent polio resurgence post-eradication.

5 Major Key Points

1. VDPV Transmission: A case in Kerala revealed VDPV transmission from an immune-deficient child to a healthy father.
2. Study Background: The discovery was made during a study by ICMR and WHO in 2022, screening 157 children with IEI.
3. Study Findings: The study emphasized the risk of iVDPVs in re-emergence of polio and the need for ongoing surveillance.
4. Health Implications: The father’s recovery was not detailed, but the case highlights significant health implications of VDPVs.
5. Call for Action: Long-term iVDPV surveillance is recommended to ensure the sustainability of polio eradication efforts.