The presence of poliovirus has been confirmed in the environmental samples of Peshawar and Karachi, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Thursday.

The virus found in Pakistani cities is genetically related to the virus found in Afghanistan.

Federal Health Minister Dr Nadeem Jan said that the presence of poliovirus in the environmental samples is worrisome.

“The poliovirus presence is posing a constant threat to our children. All affected populations will be investigated for positive environmental samples,” the minister added.

Dr Nadeem Jan said that Pakistan and Afghanistan are fighting against this virus together. He informed that top experts have been appointed in Bannu to prevent the spread of the virus, adding that they have been given the target to stop the transfer of this virus among children till December.

He requested the parents to give their children polio drops several times and also complete the immunization course for their kids so that they could avoid diseases.

Reporter Kifayat Ali Shah