A health worker in Iraq administers a polio vaccine, ensuring every child has a chance at a polio-free life. Photo: WHO Iraq8 September 2024, Baghdad, Iraq – Iraq, the first country among polio transition priority countries to achieve the polio transition process in full, continues to reap benefits from its historic success. Its polio programme will now be sustained through domestic financing, marking a significant step forward in Iraq's public health goals.
Last month, Iraq's success was highlighted as part of the Eastern Mediterranean Region’s investment cases at two international events, the Expanded Programme of Immunization (EPI) 50th anniversary ceremony in Cairo and the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) meeting in Geneva.
"Iraq’s achievement in completing the polio transition shows the strength of the commitment of the Iraqi health authorities to a polio-free future. This is not just a victory against polio, it’s a victory for every child in Iraq who now has a better chance at a healthy life," said Dr Georges Ki-Zerbo, WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Iraq.
Iraq has reduced the number of zero-dose children by more than 50 000, complementing the successful completion of the polio transition process. This is not only a victory over polio, but testament to Iraq’s broader efforts to strengthen its health systems. It also highlights the effective role of immunization programmes in safeguarding public health and reducing mortality rates among children under 5 years of age. In 2023, the EPI programme in Iraq prevented 11 034 deaths and is expected to prevent a further 11 663 by the end of 2024.
A vaccination team navigates Iraq's marshes to reach and protect children from polio. Polio Vaccination Campaign, Iraq, 2019. Photo: WHO IraqThe health benefits of Iraq’s immunization efforts extend beyond saving lives. By preventing disease and reducing mortality, Iraq secures economic benefits as more children grow up healthy and contribute to the workforce. Preventing polio-related paralysis ensures that more people can lead productive lives.
"The completion of the polio transition is a remarkable milestone, not just for Iraq but for the entire Region. This achievement shows that with strong will, adequate resources and collaboration with our international counterparts at WHO and other partners and we can accomplish what once seemed impossible," said Dr. Riyadh Al Hilfy, Director General of the Public Health Directorate at the Iraqi Ministry of Health.
Iraq’s success serves as an example to other countries, demonstrating that even in the face of significant challenges public health goals are within reach. The Ministry of Health in Iraq, in collaboration with WHO Iraq, is actively documenting its achievements to inform and guide future public health initiatives.
“This story is about more than defeating polio, it is about Iraq’s broader victory in strengthening health systems, improving surveillance and ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to lifesaving vaccines,” concluded Dr Ki-Zerbo.
“Iraq’s resilience and determination in achieving this momentous goal is an inspiration for global health efforts. It is not only a source of national pride but a significant contribution to universal health coverage, health security and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.”
For more information, please contact:
Ajyal Sultany, PhD
WHO Sr. Communications Officer
WHO Iraq – Erbil
+964 7740 892 878
