The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, has confirmed two additional polio cases in Pakistan. One case was detected in Kohistan Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while the other emerged in Badin, Sindh. The affected children include a six-year-old girl from Union Council Pattan and a 21-month-old girl from Union Council Matli-2. With these new infections, the total number of polio cases in Pakistan for 2025 has risen to 21.
The majority of cases—13—have been reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, followed by six in Sindh, and one each in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan. Polio, a highly contagious and incurable disease, can lead to permanent paralysis. Health experts emphasize that repeated doses of the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) are the only effective protection for children under five. Despite progress in eradication efforts, low vaccine acceptance in certain areas continues to put children at risk.
To combat the spread, a Sub-National Polio Vaccination Campaign will run from September 1 to 7, 2025, targeting over 28 million children across 99 districts. A separate campaign in Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will begin on September 15. The initiative aims to close immunity gaps and ensure every eligible child receives the life-saving vaccine. Authorities urge parents and caregivers to participate fully in the drive to prevent further outbreaks.
Polio eradication remains a collective responsibility. While health workers tirelessly deliver vaccines, families must ensure their children receive all recommended doses. Communities are encouraged to support vaccination efforts, counter misinformation, and promote immunization. Together, Pakistan can eliminate polio and secure a healthier future for its children.
