Progress toward poliomyelitis eradication--Nigeria, January 2000-March 2002.

Since 1988, when the World Health Assembly of the World Health Organization (WHO) resolved to eradicate poliomyelitis globally, the annual estimated incidence of polio has declined 99%. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa (estimated 2000 population: 127 million) and a major poliovirus reservoir. This report summarizes the progress toward polio eradication in Nigeria during January 2000-March 2002, highlighting achievements in acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance and evidence indicating reduced poliovirus transmission. The findings underscore the importance of ensuring a rapid flow of surveillance information to guide program activities.