As part of the global effort to eradicate polio, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is conducting a critical Poliovirus Infectious Material (PIM) survey on behalf of the UK National Authority for Containment (NAC). This survey is a WHO requirement to ensure safe containment of poliovirus in all relevant UK facilities.
To achieve polio-free certification, we must identify and assess any materials that could potentially contain poliovirus. Whether you work with poliovirus or not, if your facility stores faecal, respiratory or concentrated sewage samples, for any purpose, we need to hear from you about these samples. Our focus is on these types of specimens stored in freezers (at or below -20°C, as these may retain live poliovirus. Proper containment of these materials is essential to prevent any accidental or deliberate release of the virus.
We kindly request your participation in identifying any such materials in your facility. The WHO’s Global Action Plan (GAP) mandates that all countries maintain an inventory of facilities holding poliovirus or PIM samples.
This free webinar consists of a 30 minute presentation to explain more about the process and which materials will be in scope for this survey and a Q&A session.
Thank you for helping us take this vital step toward securing the UK’s polio-free status.
