BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE
MBABANE – Families in Siteki and surrounding communities have been reassured that there is no polio outbreak in Eswatini after the detection of Polio Virus Type 2 (PV2) at the Lugongolweni Water Treatment Plant, with health authorities acting swiftly to investigate the finding and strengthen disease surveillance.
The Ministry of Health confirmed that preliminary investigations indicate the detected virus is imported, meaning it originated from outside the country. Officials stressed that the discovery does not mean polio is spreading within Eswatini, but instead demonstrates that the country’s surveillance systems are working as intended by identifying potential health risks early.
For parents, caregivers and residents, the announcement brings reassurance that authorities are taking proactive steps to safeguard public health. Rather than waiting for illnesses to emerge, health teams have intensified monitoring to ensure communities remain protected.
The National Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) and the Disease Surveillance Office are leading the response, carrying out further investigations while closely monitoring areas supplied by the Lugongolweni Water Treatment Plant.
Communities currently under surveillance include Mpumalanga Township, Siteki Town, Mvelo Township, Ntokozweni, Flame Tree Park, Malayinini and Two Sticks.
The Ministry has encouraged residents in these areas to remain calm and cooperate with health officials as investigations continue. Authorities have also advised the public to rely on verified information from official government channels and avoid sharing unconfirmed reports that could create unnecessary concern.
Health experts continue to emphasise that routine childhood immunisation remains the strongest defence against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Parents are encouraged to ensure that children receive all recommended vaccinations according to the national immunisation schedule.
The early detection of the virus highlights the importance of continuous environmental monitoring, which enables health authorities to identify potential threats before they become public health emergencies. It also reflects Eswatini’s commitment to investing in strong disease surveillance systems that protect lives and strengthen national preparedness.
The Ministry of Health has assured the nation that it will continue providing updates as investigations progress. For the people of Siteki, the message remains clear: there is no polio outbreak, and the country’s health professionals are working diligently to keep communities safe through early detection, transparency and coordinated action.
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(Pic: Business Day News)
