The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore has confirmed one imported case of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis (polio). The patient, a five-month-old Indonesian infant, arrived in Singapore on January 26, 2025, for medical treatment.
MOH has assured that the risk of community transmission is low, as the infant was taken directly to the National University Hospital (NUH) upon arrival and immediately isolated. Three close contacts of the child have also been quarantined as a precautionary measure.
Details of the Case
Polio Diagnosis and Medical History
The infant, who is immunocompromised, had received one dose of oral polio vaccine (OPV) and one dose of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) in Indonesia. She developed fever, acute floppiness, and paralysis of the lower limbs in December 2024 but was not diagnosed with poliomyelitis at that time.
Following her medical evacuation to Singapore, she was admitted directly to NUH, where she is currently in stable condition. The MOH has implemented strict infection control measures to prevent further transmission.
Understanding Polio and Transmission Risks
Poliomyelitis is caused by the poliovirus and is primarily transmitted through food or water contaminated with fecal material. While polio can lead to severe complications, including paralysis, vaccination remains the most effective protection against the disease.
MOH emphasized that Singapore has not reported any locally acquired polio cases since 1978. The last reported case in 2006 was also an imported one.
Vaccination and Prevention Measures
Singapore follows the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), which mandates five doses of IPV:
- Three primary doses at two months, four months, and six months old
- Two booster doses at 18 months and between 10 to 11 years old
Unlike OPV, which contains a weakened live virus and carries a small risk of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis, IPV does not contain live viruses, making it the safer alternative, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Singapore has discontinued the use of OPV since 2021.
MOH’s Response to the Imported Case
MOH has reinforced that Singapore’s polio-free status is maintained through:
- High polio vaccination coverage
- Stringent hygiene and sanitation standards
- An established surveillance system to detect and contain potential cases
Vaccinations under the NCIS are available free of charge to all Singaporean children at Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) general practitioner clinics and polyclinics.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s swift response and high vaccination coverage continue to safeguard the nation against polio. While the imported case of vaccine-associated paralytic polio is concerning, the MOH’s immediate measures ensure minimal risk to the community.
Parents are encouraged to ensure their children receive all required polio vaccinations and maintain proper hygiene practices to prevent infections.
For the latest updates on public health and vaccinations, visit the Ministry of Health Singapore website.
