New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency after wastewater from five different counties tested positive for polio. The counties are Orange, Rockland, Nassau, New York City, and Sullivan, and unvaccinated people in those counties are most at risk for contracting the virus.
The polio found in the wastewater is the version of the virus that can cause paralysis.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett explained the seriousness of the discovery in a statement. "On polio, we simply cannot roll the dice. If you or your child are unvaccinated or not up to date with vaccinations, the risk of paralytic disease is real. I urge New Yorkers to not accept any risk at all. Polio immunization is safe and effective — protecting nearly all people against disease who receive the recommended doses."
The statement continued, "Do not wait to vaccinate. If you are unsure of you or your families’ vaccination status, contact a healthcare provider, clinic, or local county health department to make sure you and your loved ones receive all recommended doses."
Officials are hoping to boost vaccination rates to 90% in each of the counties, and they are advising residents that hand sanitizer will not protect them against polio germs.
There's more about the issue in the video below.
