The battle against polio has reached a critical juncture with the emergence of a smaller yet potentially serious issue - immunodeficiency related vaccine-derived polioviruses (iVDPVs). This is seen among patients with inherited primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDs), adding a new layer of complexity to the global effort for polio eradication.

The importance of addressing iVDPVs during the polio endgame and the post-eradication era cannot be overstated. Identifying PID patients excreting polioviruses is crucial to implementing effective strategies and treatments, not only to protect individuals but also to eliminate the community-wide risks posed by iVDPVs.

In collaboration with The World Health Organization (WHO), AIIMS Bhopal conducted a workshop for faculty members as well resident doctors and staff members of pediatric department for sensitization and to ensure promptly notification of primary immunodeficiency disorder cases to District Immunization Officers (DIO) and Surveillance Medical Officers (SMO). There were 60 participants in the workshop.

Prof. (Dr) Ajai Singh, Executive Director AIIMS Bhopal addressed the gathering to actively support the surveillance for adding value and knowledge and contribution for polio end game strategies. The technical presentations were made by Dr Abhishekh Jain, SRTL-MP, WHO, Dr Shikha Mallik, HOD Pediatrics, AIIMS, Dr Narendra Chaudhary, Additional Prof, Dr. Jignesh Sharma, Senior Resident, Dept. of Pediatric AIIMS and Dr Joshi SM, SMO WHO Bhopal

Dr Prabhakar Tiwari, CMHO, Bhopal and Dr. Upendra Dubey, District Immunization Officer, have acknowledged the support of AIIMS and WHO for the crucial activities of Polio eradication efforts.