Polio Vaccination Protection Urged by Bavarian Health Minister

Bavaria's Health and Prevention Minister Judith Gerlach has emphasized the importance of vaccination protection against poliomyelitis (polio) in the face of ongoing global outbreaks. Despite Europe being considered polio-free since 2002, the virus remains a threat in many parts of the world, and international travel poses a risk to countries like Germany. Recent evidence of polioviruses in wastewater has highlighted the need for complete vaccination protection.

Key Takeaways:

• Polio is an infectious disease that can lead to paralysis and death, with global vaccination campaigns being crucial in controlling its spread.
• Europe has been considered polio-free since 2002, but the virus still poses a threat in many parts of the world, including Germany.
• International travel increases the risk of polio outbreaks in countries like Germany, where no cases have been registered for decades.
• Occasional evidence of polioviruses in wastewater in Germany highlights the need for complete vaccination protection against this highly contagious disease.
• The basic immunization against polio should take place at the age of 2, 4, and 11 months with a combination vaccine.
• A booster vaccination is recommended for young people between the ages of 9 and 16 years, with complete basic immunization and booster vaccination necessary for long-lasting protection.
• The Standing Vaccination Commission recommends making up for missing vaccinations, even in adulthood.

Statistics:

• 77% of Bavarian children were basic immunized at the age of 24 months (KV vaccination surveillance data).
• 94% of all children are fully vaccinated against polio when they start school in Bavaria (KV vaccination surveillance data).
• 1990: The last domestic case of a wild polio virus in Germany occurred (Robert Koch Institute).

Sources:

• "Polio ist ein hochansteckungsgefährlicher" (October 24, 2025 - No. 208).
• Robert Koch Institute.
• KV vaccination surveillance data.