Debate on continuing polio eradication efforts

That's what is being reported in this AP story from last week: "Experts reconsider goal of ending polio." The debate centers on whether efforts should be centered on containment -- polio is endemic in four countries and affects roughly 2,000 people a year -- or a continuation of the quite costly eradication program now entering its 19th year. Eliminating these remaining cases has proven to be far more difficult than smallpox eradication, which was accomplished in half as much time.

The story highlights an interesting and important debate among experts within the WHO, the infectious disease community overall, and leaders from the countries still affected by the disease.

Of note is the nearly-4,000 word feature published nearly a year ago in the New York Times on the challenges of polio eradiation, which we wrote about here.