# Why hasn't polio been eradicated yet? The question remains: what is plan B? - **Source:** [Nature](https://brifing.si/source/4d850c3b-dd79-4024-bc91-db2571889199) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/91c5b609-6299-4a2c-846e-470b7151e41d ## Why Has Polio Eradication Been Delayed? Although polio has been largely controlled worldwide, it has not been completely eradicated. Reasons include political instability, vaccine access issues, and resistance in some communities. Global efforts continue, but target dates have not been met. ## Current Status and Challenges Case reports still emerge in countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan. Security issues and vaccine hesitancy in these regions hinder eradication efforts. Additionally, disruptions to routine vaccination programs during the pandemic have had an impact. ## What Is Plan B? Plan B involves alternative strategies, including new vaccine technologies, increased community engagement, and collaboration with local leaders. More effective surveillance systems and emergency response teams are also on the agenda. ## New Vaccine Strategies Efforts are underway to develop new formulations of the oral polio vaccine to reduce side effects. The use of inactivated polio vaccine is also being expanded. These methods may be more effective in preventing the spread of the virus. ## The Importance of Community Engagement Involving local communities is critical to the success of vaccination. Collaboration with religious leaders and local figures plays a key role in building trust. Education campaigns are also used to combat misinformation. ## Global Collaboration Is Essential Polio eradication requires a united global effort. Without combined funding, logistics, and political will, achieving targets seems difficult. However, success is possible with determination and innovative approaches. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-02229-6 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._