On September 19, the Philippine government declared an outbreak of polio.
Cases of polio in the country were said to have caused by vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (VDPV2).
The rare virus, which is derived from the oral polio vaccine, has genetically changed from its weak form, due to low oral polio vaccine coverage in the country.
The VDPV2 is said to only occur when the vaccine virus is passed on from one person to another for an extended time, in areas with insufficient sanitation and an unimmunised population.
Water samples from Manila sewage as well as the Davao River have been positive for the virus.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has cautioned travelers to the Philippines regarding the outbreak. Adult travelers should be fully vaccinated before leaving the country.
Additionally, adults who completed their routine polio vaccine series as children should receive a single, lifetime adult booster dose of polio vaccine to make sure they are protected against the virus.
Travellers who will be staying in the Philippines for more than 4 weeks may need an additional booster at least 4 weeks prior to their planned departure, given that the traveler has not received polio vaccination in the last 12 months.
Travelers undertaking urgent travel within four (4) weeks, are recommended to receive a single dose of IPV at least by the time of departure as this will still provide benefits, particularly for frequent travelers.
For travellers leaving the Philippines, make sure to check the immunisation requirements of the country you are going to.
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For information on polio vaccine recommendations for travel, consult with your general practitioner (GP) or you may also visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the World Health Organization websites.
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