Three polio cases confirmed in Pakistan as vaccination drive continues

Ministry of Health confirms three new polio cases, bringing the total to 21 this year as eradication efforts ramp up.

The Ministry of Health has confirmed the detection of three new polio cases in Pakistan, bringing the total number of cases this year to 21.

The newly reported cases have emerged in the provinces of Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement from the Ministry.

WPV Polio Cases 2024 Across Districts in Pakistan

Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, expressed deep concern over the latest developments but reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating the disease.

“The Government is more determined than ever to rid the country of polio,” she stated. Ayesha Raza highlighted the serious and practical measures being undertaken, including close collaboration with provincial governments to ensure coordinated efforts across the nation.

Ayesha Raza also pointed to the success of the first polio eradication campaign for the 2024-2025 season, during which 33 million children were vaccinated across 115 districts. She announced plans for further nationwide vaccination campaigns in October and December to curb the virus’s spread.

As part of the ongoing efforts, a joint initiative between the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) and the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), called the "Big Catch Up," aims to vaccinate all children who remain unvaccinated. “We are leaving no child behind in our efforts,” Ayesha Raza added.

The Ministry of Health reiterated its dedication to safeguarding the health of children and eradicating polio from the country once and for all.