Poliomyelitis Immunization: Coverage according to Geographic Region of Brazil, 2018-2022

Abstract

Background: Poliomyelitis, also known as infantile paralysis, is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus, which may present with a broad clinical spectrum ranging from mild, self-limited symptoms to severe neurological impairment, including paralysis of limb and respiratory muscles. Although currently rare due to the widespread implementation of vaccination programs, poliomyelitis remains a significant public health concern. The eradication of polio is a national and global objective. The Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) and the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) are effective preventive strategies, particularly because of the virus’s low genetic variability, which favors sustained immunological protection through vaccination. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate regional disparities and temporal trends in poliomyelitis vaccination coverage in Brazil between 2018 and 2022.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study analyzed polio vaccination coverage across the five geographic regions of Brazil (North, Northeast, Central-West, Southeast, and South) from 2018 to 2022. Secondary data were collected from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database (DATASUS) and examined to identify regional trends and variations in immunization rates during the study period.
Results: The Northern region presented the lowest mean vaccination coverage (71.17%) and marked annual fluctuations. In contrast, the Southern region demonstrated the highest mean coverage (85.71%) and greater temporal stability. None of the regions achieved the 95% vaccination target recommended for adequate population protection between 2018 and 2022. A noticeable decline in coverage was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic period, followed by a modest recovery in 2022.
Conclusion: Despite the availability of effective vaccines and longstanding immunization policies, polio vaccination coverage in Brazil remains below the recommended threshold across all regions. Regional disparities and the decline observed during the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the need for strengthened public health strategies, improved access to immunization services, and renewed community engagement to prevent the reemergence of poliomyelitis and ensure sustained population protection.