Nigeria Is On The Verge Of Bidding Goodbye To Polio
It's the last country in Africa where polio is hanging on. The good news: There hasn't been a case in more than six months. But that doesn't mean the virus is history.
polio
Control, Eliminate, Eradicate A Disease: What's The Difference?
We've eradicated smallpox. But we can only hope to control malaria. A new exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History explains how disease fighters set and pursue their goals.
How To Make An Unboring Documentary About Polio
Filmmaker Tom Roberts was definitely not interested when he was first asked to make a movie about the disease. Then he began to do some research. "Every Last Child" is the result.
Pakistan Keeps On Vaccinating Despite Tough Terrain And Terror Threat
Just getting a measles vaccine to a child in Pakistan was once an impossible dream. Despite many obstacles, health workers have made great progress in stopping infectious diseases.
It Turns Out That Fighting Polio Is Good Training To Fight Ebola
Nigeria knows how to beat back polio. And that's helped in the battle against Ebola. But other West African countries are struggling to beat the deadly virus — and neglecting anti-polio efforts.
Happy Birthday To Google Doodle Honoree Dr. Jonas Salk!
On the 100th anniversary of the polio pioneer's birth, Google takes note with a doodle. As the world gears up to fight Ebola, it's a good time to remember one of the heroes of a 1950s epidemic.
The Hidden Costs Of Fighting Polio In Pakistan
The effort to end polio is taking a toll on Pakistan's already overstretched health system. With more children dying of measles and diarrhea, some question whether the focus on polio is worth it.
The Comeback Of Polio Is A Public Health Emergency
The paralyzing virus had seemed on the verge of disappearing. But this year cases are being reported in 10 countries. The World Health Organization has responded with strict vaccination rules.
As Polio Spreads In Syria, Politics Thwarts Vaccination Efforts
The polio outbreak in Syria has spread to four cities, and new cases are suspected each day. But U.N. agencies responsible for combating the outbreak can work only with the Syrian government. This limitation has hobbled vaccination efforts in rebel-held regions, where the virus was first detected.
Violence, Chaos Let Polio Creep Back Into Syria And Horn Of Africa
The number of polio cases globally sank to an all-time low in 2012. But outbreaks in Syria and Somalia this year are jeopardizing efforts to eradicate the virus. A recent visit to the Somali-Ethiopian border highlights just how easily polio can regain a foothold in rural, insecure communities.