Polio surge in Pakistan: 39 cases reported nationwide, new campaign to begin

In an alarming development, 39 polio cases have been reported across Pakistan, with more than 400 environmental samples testing positive for the virus, according to Ayesha Raza, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio.

Speaking at a press briefing with health reporters, Raza highlighted the widespread presence of the polio virus, now confirmed in 71 districts throughout the country.

Despite political challenges, Raza emphasized that the federal and provincial governments are coordinating effectively to combat the spread of the virus. She credited continuous polio vaccination campaigns for containing the virus's spread but acknowledged the difficult conditions under which polio workers operate.

A comprehensive anti-polio campaign is set to launch nationwide on October 28, involving over 400,000 polio workers. The campaign will focus on addressing weaknesses identified in past efforts to ensure maximum coverage. Raza reiterated the vaccine’s halal certification and compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) standards, dismissing misinformation about the vaccine.

Capt. (Rtd) Anwar-ul-Haq, National Coordinator for Polio, added that Pakistan’s strong surveillance system has been crucial in detecting polio cases. Contacts with Afghanistan continue to coordinate efforts on both sides of the border, he said. Additionally, polio workers found guilty of fraudulent practices, such as bogus marking, have been dismissed.

The upcoming campaign is seen as a critical step in Pakistan’s fight to eliminate polio, with top-performing polio workers set to receive awards in recognition of their efforts.