Indonesia has overcome the type 2 polio virus outbreak, WHO declares relief

Jitendra Meena — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 11:08:44 +0000

Polio Free Indonesia – Indonesia has achieved a major public health breakthrough. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that the country’s polio virus type 2 outbreak is now over. The official announcement was made on November 19, after no traces of the virus were found in children or the environment since June 2024.

Victification Campaign A Victory

According to the Indonesian Ministry of Health, approximately 60 million additional polio vaccine doses were administered across the country to combat the poliovirus. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin attributed this success to the hard work of health workers, the cooperation of parents, and the support of international organizations. However, he also warned that the threat of polio has not yet been completely eliminated due to low vaccination coverage in some areas.

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WHO Support and Future Direction

WHO Western Pacific Regional Director Dr. Saya Mau Piukala described this achievement as further strengthening the region’s polio-free status. He urged all countries to strengthen their vaccination campaigns to prevent a resurgence of polio.

Where were polio cases detected?

After the first case of polio was reported in October 2022, several cases were reported in various parts of the country, including Aceh, Banten, West Java, Central Java, East Java, North Maluku, Central Papua, Highland Papua, and South Papua. The last case was reported in 2024. Following this, the government launched an emergency vaccination campaign using the novel OPV-2 (nOPV2) vaccine and also accelerated routine immunization.

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Increased Vaccination

In 2023, 63% of children received their second dose of IPV (inactivated polio vaccine), which increased to 73% in 2024. Furthermore, Indonesia has also introduced the hexavalent vaccine, which provides protection against six diseases in a single shot, from 2025.

UNICEF Applauds

Maniza Zaman, Indonesia Representative for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), praised the achievement, saying it shows that when communities, health systems, and global organizations work together, major goals can be achieved. The Ministry of Health also clarified that surveillance, routine immunization, and community communication will be strengthened to prevent a resurgence of polio.