Polio Virus Detected in WA Wastewater

A rare vaccine-derived poliovirus strain has been detected in Western Australia, prompting authorities to issue a high alert. The virus was identified at the Subiaco wastewater treatment plant in Perth. This detection is significant as it is the first time this specific polio strain has been found in Australia.

Australian health officials are collaborating closely with state government bodies and the National Polio Surveillance Program. The vaccine-derived nature of the virus suggests it likely originated from an individual who had recently traveled to Perth after living overseas, where the oral polio vaccine is still administered. Australia exclusively uses inactivated polio vaccines.