Jamaica has reaffirmed its commitment to the global fight against polio and expressed continued support for the Polio Eradication Strategy 2022–2026 and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative during the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

Representing Jamaica at the Assembly, Chief Medical Officer, Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, CD, reminded delegates that Jamaica has remained polio-free since 1982, while emphasizing that the country remains vigilant against the risk of re-importation.

“As long as polio exists anywhere, we remain at risk of re-importation,” Dr. Bisasor-McKenzie stated.

The Chief Medical Officer highlighted Jamaica’s continued efforts to strengthen national immunization coverage following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have taken decisive steps to bolster our defences. Following a national catch-up campaign, Jamaica achieved a significant post-pandemic recovery, with Polio coverage moving from 89 percent in 2021 to 96 percent in 2025,” she noted.

To further strengthen the routine immunization programme, Jamaica is preparing to introduce the Hexavalent vaccine in 2026. The transition will move the country’s national immunization requirements to three primary doses of Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV), providing children with enhanced protection against the disease.

Dr. Bisasor-McKenzie also underscored Jamaica’s ongoing commitment to international surveillance and containment obligations. She noted that the country continues to maintain vigilance through epidemiological surveillance for Acute Flaccid Paralysis and reverification processes to confirm the absence of stored infectious poliovirus materials.

While acknowledging Jamaica’s local successes, the Chief Medical Officer stressed that the global effort to eradicate polio remains at a critical stage, particularly in conflict-affected regions and among vulnerable populations.

“Jamaica joins the call for sustained international commitment, predictable financing to finish the job, and targeted measures to reach zero-dose children in the most vulnerable communities,” she said.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness remains resolute in Jamaica’s commitment to protecting children through strong immunization systems and continued collaboration with international partners to achieve a polio-free world.