Wild Poliovirus detected in environmental samples across 17 districts of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed the presence of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in environmental samples collected from 17 districts. The affected districts include Islamabad, Lasbela, Khuzdar, Quetta, Killa Saifullah, D.G. Khan, Barkhan, Sibi, Dukki, Mastung, Lakki Marwat, Bahawalpur, Gujranwala, Noshki, Kech, Rahim Yar Khan, and Lahore.

An official from the laboratory clarified the significance of positive sewage samples, explaining, “A positive environmental sample signals the presence of the virus in the area, while a positive case indicates a child has been paralyzed by the virus.”

The detection of WPV1 in sewage underscores the critical need for robust polio immunization campaigns. “Sewage water testing is a crucial measure of the effectiveness of vaccination drives,” the official added, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts to achieve eradication.

As 2025 begins, polio cases from the previous year are still being confirmed due to the time required for sample collection, transportation, and laboratory analysis. Last week, the Regional Reference Laboratory verified the 70th wild poliovirus case of the year. This case involved a male child from Karachi East, marking the second reported polio case from the district during 2024.

The presence of poliovirus in environmental samples highlights the persistent threat of polio in Pakistan and the urgent need for continued vaccination efforts to protect children from paralysis.

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