These analyses are part of an environmental poliovirus surveillance project, in conjunction with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). The samples, taken on June 26 and August 26, 2024, revealed the presence of the virus in the Cayenne and Saint-Georges wastewater treatment plants and in a lagoon in Remire-Montjoly. However, the Kourou and Saint-Laurent du Maroni wastewater treatment plants showed no trace of poliovirus.
The ARS specifies that to date, no cases of poliomyelitis have been identified in the territory and that there is no evidence of active circulation of the virus. Poliomyelitis is a viral disease which, although often asymptomatic, can cause paralysis in some cases. It is transmitted by the ingestion of food or drink contaminated by the feces of an infected person. A vaccine, mandatory for infants and available free of charge, effectively protects against the disease and its complications.
In this context, healthcare professionals are invited to check the vaccination status of their patients, and the population is encouraged to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date. This check can be carried out by a doctor, pharmacist, midwife or nurse. The ARS and the Ministry of Health continue to closely monitor the situation.
Damien Chaillot