What is Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1) & Its Health Risks?

A virus is a tiny infectious agent that cannot live or reproduce on its own and needs a host cell to multiply. Viruses can infect humans, animals, or plants and cause diseases ranging from mild colds to severe illnesses. The risk of viral infection includes rapid spread, potential for outbreaks, and sometimes life-threatening complications. Prevention mainly relies on vaccines, hygiene, and strong immunity, making awareness and protection essential to reduce the global burden of viral diseases.

One such virus is Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1), which we will explore in detail in this blog.

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What is Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1)?

Poliovirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route, attacking the nervous system and potentially causing lifelong paralysis. Wild Poliovirus (WPV) refers to the naturally occurring strains of poliovirus, distinct from vaccine-derived ones. WPV1 spreads easily, most often through the fecal-oral route via contaminated food and water, and less commonly through respiratory droplets. After entering the body, it multiplies in the intestines and, in rare cases, invades the central nervous system, leading to paralysis.

Types of Wild Poliovirus (WPV)

There are three known types of wild poliovirus:

• WPV1: Currently, WPV1 is the only strain still circulating in parts of the world.

• WPV2: It was successfully eradicated in 2015 after decades of vaccination efforts.

• WPV3: It was followed in 2019, marking another milestone in polio eradication.

Research Data on Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1)

As of recent data, WPV1 remains endemic in only two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

• By mid-2025, Pakistan reported 19 cases and Afghanistan 2 cases, with several positive sewage samples confirming ongoing transmission.

• In 2022, new outbreaks were detected in Malawi and Mozambique, traced back to a strain originating in Pakistan, marking its re-emergence in southeastern Africa after many years.

• These findings highlight that WPV1 is still present and poses a serious risk, particularly in areas with low vaccination coverage.

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Symptoms of Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1)

Health Risks of WPV1 (Wild Poliovirus Type 1)

1. Asymptomatic Spread

• As many as 90% of WPV1 infections show no or only mild symptoms. This makes it difficult to detect cases early. People can unknowingly spread the virus while appearing healthy.

• Because the virus often spreads without showing signs, controlling outbreaks becomes challenging.

• Reports of poliovirus found in symptom-free children underline the silent danger it poses to communities.

2. Paralysis and Death

• Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of the body, often caused by nerve damage or viral attack on the nervous system.

• In about 8-10% of symptomatic cases, WPV1 leads to paralysis, most often affecting the legs and sometimes appearing within hours of infection.

•  Among these, 5–10% may die if the virus weakens or paralyzes the muscles responsible for breathing.

According to WHO:

“Polio is a highly infectious disease, caused by a virus that invades the nervous system and can cause permanent paralysis (approximately one in 200 infections) or death (approximately 2–10% of paralyzed cases).”

3. Environmental Persistence

• WPV1 is capable of surviving outside the human body, particularly in polluted water and areas with inadequate sanitation, which allows it to spread more easily.

• Health workers can sometimes find traces of WPV1 in sewage even before any patients are diagnosed.

• This ability to persist silently in the environment makes WPV1 a hidden threat, capable of resurfacing in communities long after clinical cases have declined.

4. Vulnerable Population

Children under 5 are most at risk of developing paralytic polio.

All age groups can still be infected and affected.

Risk increases in communities with:

• Low vaccination coverage

• Malnutrition

• Weak or compromised immunity

• Poor sanitation and hygiene conditions

5. Cross-Border Movement and Outbreak Spread

• Frequent population movement across borders enables WPV1 to spread.

• Migrants and travelers may unknowingly carry the virus to new regions. This has caused international outbreaks even in previously polio-free countries.

• Stronger surveillance and border vaccination programs are crucial to stop the spread.

6. Malnutrition and Weak Immunity

• Children suffering from poor nutrition are far less capable of resisting infections, making them especially vulnerable to viral diseases such as WPV1.

• Malnutrition weakens immunity, making it harder to fight poliovirus, often leading to more severe illness and higher paralysis risk.

• Good nutrition boosts immunity, enhances the body’s defense against viruses like WPV1, and reduces the risk of severe infection.

7. Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy

• False rumors and mistrust often reduce acceptance of polio vaccines, leaving many unprotected.

• This resistance weakens community protection, allowing WPV1 to persist and increasing the risk of outbreaks in under-vaccinated populations.

• Strong public awareness campaigns are essential to counter misinformation and encourage greater trust in vaccination efforts.

8. Limited Access to Healthcare

• In remote or underserved regions, countless children miss vital vaccinations, creating large immunity gaps that leave them vulnerable to WPV1.

• Weak healthcare systems further slow outbreak detection and response, allowing the virus to spread silently and unchecked through communities.

• Ensuring access to reliable healthcare and routine immunization is therefore essential to control WPV1 and protect public health.

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Conclusion

Despite remarkable achievements in polio eradication, Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1) still poses a global threat due to its silent transmission and potential for paralysis. With no cure available, prevention is the only shield. Sustained vaccination campaigns, strong surveillance systems, and rapid outbreak control measures are vital to protect vulnerable populations and move closer to a polio-free world.

In case of such an infection, it is advisable to seek guidance from an infectious disease specialist for accurate diagnosis and management by visiting Apka Muaalij. For a quick consultation, dial 042 3237 7001 and book your doctor's appointment through Apka Muaalij, the best telehealth platform in Pakistan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a cure for WPV1?

No, polio has no cure; prevention via vaccination is the only effective protection.

What percentage of infections cause paralysis?

About 0.5–1% of WPV1 infections result in paralysis, with 5–10% of those cases fatal.

How can WPV1 return in polio-free regions?

Through importation from endemic areas and low vaccination coverage, allowing silent transmission.

Can adults get WPV1?

Yes, while children under 5 are most at risk, adults can also be infected if unvaccinated.

Why are Pakistan and Afghanistan still affected?

Factors include low vaccination coverage, misinformation, conflict zones, and weak healthcare access.

How long can WPV1 survive outside the body?

WPV1 can survive in water or sewage for weeks, especially in areas with poor sanitation.