Vaccine-derived poliovirus has been detected in wastewater in Australia during routine surveillance of untreated sewage at a treatment plant in Perth.

The vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 strain detected in Western Australia is found in parts of the world where the oral vaccine polio is used, and where low immunisation coverage and poor sanitation allow for easy transmission of the virus.

Its detection reinforces the effectiveness of Australia’s robust disease surveillance and monitoring systems.

While Australia remains polio-free and vaccination coverage for polio is high, this detection serves as a reminder for all people to check they are up to date with routine vaccinations, including polio.

Polio vaccination is a part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule and is free under the National Immunisation Program for children aged 2 months, 4 months, 6 months and 4 years. Free catch-up vaccination is also available for eligible people under 20 years, and refugees and other humanitarian entrants of any age.