Detection of wild poliovirus type 1 in environmental sample in Germany

On 10 November 2025, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) was informed that wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) was isolated from an environmental (sewage) sample collected through routine surveillance in Hamburg, Germany, during the week of 6 October 2025.

Genetic sequencing indicates that the detected virus is linked to WPV1 last identified from an environmental sample collected in Kandahar, Afghanistan, on 24 August 2025. No associated cases of paralysis have been detected in Germany, and at this time the virus has been found only in wastewater.

This detection is genetically unrelated to circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2, which has also been detected in Germany in recent months through environmental surveillance. As with the current finding, no human cases have been associated with those detections.

GPEI partners are working closely with national and local public health authorities, through WHO/Europe, to support ongoing investigations, assess potential risks and determine whether any additional public health measures are needed.

Germany has strong routine immunization coverage and a robust environmental surveillance system, which enabled this virus to be detected in the absence of any cases of disease. This early detection provides the opportunity to implement appropriate measures swiftly to protect children and communities.

This event underscores the reality that until polio is eradicated everywhere, all countries remain at risk of importation of the virus and potential re-infection. It highlights the continued importance of high vaccination coverage, strong disease surveillance and international solidarity in achieving and sustaining a polio-free world.