Progress toward poliomyelitis eradication--West Africa, 1997-September 1998.

In 1988, the World Health Assembly adopted the goal of global eradication of poliomyelitis by 2000. Although substantial progress has been reported in many parts of the world toward achieving this goal, West Africa remains a major reservoir of poliovirus transmission. This report summarizes progress achieved in the 15 countries of the World Health Organization (WHO) West African subregion (excluding Nigeria) during 1997-1998, reviews the implementation of polio eradication strategies, and suggests that, if activities are intensified and adequate resources are provided, achieving the eradication goal by the target date remains feasible.