Pakistan has reported three additional polio cases, bringing the national tally to 17 in 2025. The new cases were confirmed in Lakki Marwat (KP), North Waziristan (KP), and Umerkot (Sindh) by the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication. The affected children include a 15-month-old girl, a six-month-old girl, and a 60-month-old boy.
With these latest detections, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the hardest-hit region, accounting for 10 of the 17 cases. Sindh follows with five infections, while Punjab and Gilgit Baltistan have reported one case each. Health officials warn that polio, a highly contagious disease, can cause permanent paralysis and has no cure—making vaccination the only effective defense.
Vaccination Campaigns Ramped Up
A synchronized vaccination campaign is ongoing in border areas from July 21-27, aligning with Afghanistan’s efforts. Additionally, Balochistan has launched a targeted IPV-OPV campaign in Chaman, with plans to expand to six more districts starting July 28. Authorities urge parents to ensure their children receive all recommended vaccine doses.
Call for Immediate Action
Polio spreads rapidly among unvaccinated children, posing a severe public health risk. Officials stress that repeated OPV doses and timely immunizations are critical to eradication. As Pakistan battles this outbreak, community cooperation is essential to protect children and prevent further cases. Stay vigilant and support vaccination drives!