“Today we learned polio was detected in New York City’s wastewater, suggesting that the virus is circulating. As we continue to grapple with COVID-19 and Monkeypox, we now face another public health risk, but the defense is simple and proven. It is imperative that all New Yorkers make sure they have received their full polio vaccination, which is standard for children and nearly 100% effective. There are clear disparities in the vaccination rate across our city, where some neighborhoods have less coverage and more risk. The City and all officials need to ensure we address these gaps so New Yorkers are protected from this virus. All parents and caregivers should make sure their young children have the full course of vaccination against polio. All adults who are unvaccinated, or have not received the full course, should get the full vaccination now.  New Yorkers should contact their primary care providers first, and call 311 in the event that is not an option for vaccination. New Yorkers can visit the City’s vaccine record database to confirm immunization records for themselves and family members. The Council will continue monitoring this potential outbreak and the City’s response, remaining in coordination with our City and State health officials.”

On Background:

The polio vaccine is proven to be 99% effective and is a standard vaccination for children. New Yorkers should visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s polio webpage for more information.

A breakdown of New York City vaccination coverage is available here via the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH).

New Yorkers can check their vaccine records here via DOHMH.

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