“The spread of the virus is a serious concern, and we must intensify our efforts to halt its transmission,” PM Focal Person for Polio Ayesha Raza Farooq said
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: The National Institute of Health (NIH) confirmed Pakistan’s 18th polio case of the year, marking a worrying trend in the country’s ongoing battle against the crippling disease. The latest victim, a two-year-old child from Quetta, represents the second case from the city and the 13th reported in Balochistan this year.
Health officials have raised alarms over the persistent spread of the poliovirus, particularly in regions where polio eradication efforts have been disrupted. According to an official statement from the health department, the virus was detected through laboratory tests on the affected child, highlighting the need for urgent and sustained immunization efforts.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, expressed deep concern over the new case, emphasizing the impact of recent disruptions in vaccination campaigns across parts of Balochistan. “The spread of the virus is a serious concern, and we must intensify our efforts to halt its transmission,” she said. Farooq called for the continuous administration of multiple doses of the polio vaccine, urging parents to ensure that their children under five are vaccinated during the ongoing campaigns.
“We are taking all necessary steps to protect children from this crippling disease, but success depends on the cooperation of the public. Every child must receive the vaccine,” she added.
Despite Pakistan’s progress in reducing polio cases in recent years, the virus remains endemic in the country, posing a significant public health challenge. Health officials, particularly in remote and conflict-ridden regions, face obstacles in reaching every child. As of 2024, Pakistan continues to grapple with sporadic outbreaks, especially in Balochistan, which has borne the brunt of the virus this year.
The detection of the virus in Quetta underlines the urgent need for stronger immunization campaigns, enhanced awareness, and greater public participation. Officials have reiterated the importance of these measures to eradicate polio once and for all and safeguard future generations from the disease.
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