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Poliomyelitis in Iraq

26 Mar 2014

A case of wild polio virus (WPV1) was reported this week in Baghdad, the first case to be reported from this country since 2000.  The affected individual is a 6 month old, unimmunised boy. Genetic sequencing indicates that the isolated virus is closely related to that already reported from the Syrian Arab Republic.

(Via WHO Global Alert and Response - accessed 26/03/14)

Advice for Travellers

It is recommended that travellers have a poliomyelitis booster (or course) if not already protected and take precautions with food, water and personal hygiene.