National immunization days and status of poliomyelitis eradication–Philippines, 1993

The Western Pacific Regional Committee of the World Health Organization (WHO) resolved in 1988 to eradicate poliomyelitis in the region by 1995. Despite intensified surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), reported cases of poliomyelitis decreased from 5485 in 1989 to 1909 in 1992. Of the five countries in the region that continue to report endemic poliomyelitis (Cambodia, People’s Republic of China Laos, Republic of the Philippines, and Vietnam), reported incidence is lowest in Philippines, which also was the first country in the region to undertake national immunization days (NIDs) with oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV); in addition, other vaccines were administered at vaccination posts by trained health workers. This report assesses the impact of Philippines’ first NID, which was initiated as part of its poliomyelitis eradication efforts, and summarizes progress toward eradication of poliomyelitis in Philippines.