Nationwide sewage surveillance uncovers polio virus presence across Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at Pakistan’s National Institute of Health has confirmed the detection of Wild Poliovirus Type 1 in sewage samples from all four provinces. In an extensive sampling exercise conducted between February 3 and 12, the laboratory analyzed specimens collected from 25 districts nationwide, revealing polio-positive results that underscore an urgent need for reinforced immunization and public health measures.

In Sindh, 13 districts— including Karachi Central, East, Keamari, Korangi, Malir, Hyderabad, Badin, Jacobabad, Jamshoro, Mirpurkhas, Sajawal, Dadu, and Sukkur—were found to have traces of the polio virus. Punjab recorded positive results in four key districts: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala. In Balochistan, five districts, namely Quetta, Chaman, Loralai, Noshki, and Zhob, tested positive, while three districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—Peshawar, Dera Ismail Khan, and Lakki Marwat—also showed the presence of the virus.

This alarming development coincides with the recent reporting of six polio cases across the country this year, including four cases from Sindh, one from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and one from Punjab. Health authorities emphasize that these findings call for an immediate, coordinated response to strengthen polio eradication initiatives, enhance vaccination campaigns, and improve sewage surveillance as a critical component in preventing further spread of the virus.

As Pakistan continues its battle against polio, the detection of the virus in sewage reinforces the importance of robust public health strategies and community participation in immunization drives. The National Institute of Health and other stakeholders are working closely to monitor the situation and implement measures to safeguard public health and advance the goal of a polio-free Pakistan.