The fight against poliovirus in Pakistan faces setbacks as three more cases have emerged in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The latest cases were confirmed by the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health.
The affected children include two girls aged 8 and 20 months from Dera Ismail Khan and Zhob, and a 5-month-old boy from Jaffarabad. These districts had previously reported poliovirus cases this year.
Immunity Gap Widening
Pakistan has recorded 55 cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in 2024. The continued detection of the virus in multiple districts underscores an alarming immunity gap among children.
The persistent presence of the virus in Dera Ismail Khan, Zhob, and Jaffarabad points to challenges in routine immunization efforts. D.I. Khan, designated as one of the seven polio-endemic districts in southern KP, has reported six cases this year.
Balochistan and KP Struggle with Immunization
Balochistan’s Zhob and Jaffarabad districts have reported three and two cases, respectively, in 2024. These districts form part of a critical epidemiological zone in central Pakistan, frequently linked to virus reservoirs in the Quetta block and Karachi.
A lab official explained that gaps in reaching vulnerable children in these regions remain a significant barrier to eradication. “Access challenges over the past three years have hindered routine immunization in these areas,” the official said.
National Breakdown of Polio Cases
Of the 55 cases reported this year:
- Balochistan: 26 cases
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 14 cases
- Sindh: 13 cases
- Punjab: 1 case
- Islamabad: 1 case
The widespread geographic spread of cases highlights the need for urgent measures to address the growing threat.
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Global Polio Delegation Meets PM Shehbaz Sharif
Days before the new cases were reported, a delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other officials. The meeting focused on strategies to combat the outbreak and tackle emerging challenges in immunization.
The delegation emphasized the importance of closing immunity gaps and strengthening surveillance systems. However, the latest cases reflect the challenges in implementing these strategies effectively.
Health officials have reiterated the need for enhanced vaccination campaigns, particularly in high-risk districts. Routine immunization coverage must be improved to protect children from the crippling disease.
Despite efforts to curb its spread, poliovirus remains a significant public health challenge for Pakistan. As the virus continues to circulate, the fight against polio demands increased coordination, funding, and public awareness.
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