Pakistan's polio tally hits 40 on World Polio Day

The reference laboratory has confirmed a polio case in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to sources, the polio virus case was reported in Kohat. With this, the total number of polio cases this year has reached 40.

Sources from the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) have confirmed the presence of wild poliovirus type one in the affected child, who is two and a half years old.

The genetic diagnosis process for the polio case is ongoing. This is the second polio case reported from Kohat this year, while the first polio virus case from Kohat was reported last month. The polio case emerged from the Darra Adam Khel area of Kohat.

Furthermore, sources indicate that this year, four polio-positive sewage samples have been reported from Kohat. A total of 20 polio cases have been reported from Balochistan this year, while Sindh has reported 12 cases, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa six, Punjab one, and Islamabad one polio case.

The recent surge in polio cases has been accompanied by heightened violence against vaccination workers. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, local police report 27 attacks on polio workers this year alone.

Militants, who allege that vaccines are part of a Western conspiracy, have long targeted polio vaccination campaigns. In September, a police officer protecting a vaccination site in Bannu was killed, along with a polio worker and another police officer in Bajaur.

Despite these challenges, Pakistani authorities remain hopeful. A new nationwide polio vaccination campaign is scheduled to commence on October 28, with the goal of vaccinating 45 million children under the age of five.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirms commitment to a polio-free Pakistan

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed unwavering determination to eradicate polio in Pakistan, envisioning a future where no child suffers from this preventable disease.

In his message on World Polio Day, observed today, the Prime Minister acknowledged the significant strides made in reducing polio cases, thanks to the relentless efforts of healthcare workers and the support of international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

However, he also highlighted ongoing challenges, including security issues, misinformation, and difficulties in accessing remote areas.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of unity in raising awareness and reaffirming the commitment to eradicate polio, a disease that has affected millions of children. He stated that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the global community in this vital mission.

Despite the obstacles, the Prime Minister commended the bravery of healthcare workers who strive to vaccinate every child. He noted that the government is enhancing healthcare infrastructure, expanding vaccine coverage, and addressing misinformation through the National Emergency Action Plan.

The Prime Minister underscored the significance of regional cooperation, particularly with Afghanistan, to manage cross-border transmission of the virus.

He reminded citizens that this battle extends beyond just polio; it is about establishing a strong public health system and protecting the health of future generations.