Despite persistent vaccination efforts, Pakistan has confirmed three new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1), raising the total for 2024 to 59.
Recent Cases and Regional Breakdown:
The latest cases have been reported from:
- Dera Ismail Khan (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa)
- Kemari District (Karachi, Sindh)
- Kashmore (Sindh)
Genetic analysis reveals that the virus samples from these areas belong to the same WPV1 cluster, indicating sustained transmission.
The distribution of cases across provinces includes:
- Balochistan: 26 cases
- Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa: 16 cases
- Sindh: 15 cases
- Punjab: 1 case
- Islamabad: 1 case
Challenges in Eradication:
The persistence of polio in Pakistan underscores the difficulties in achieving complete eradication, particularly in high-risk areas where vaccine coverage faces hurdles such as misinformation, logistical challenges, and community resistance.
Intensified Efforts:
Health authorities are intensifying vaccination campaigns in affected regions, aiming to curb the virus’s spread. Special focus is being placed on awareness drives and targeted interventions in regions with confirmed cases.
While Pakistan continues its fight against polio, the resurgence of cases is a reminder of the need for sustained efforts and community cooperation to eliminate the disease entirely.
