ISLAMABAD: The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health has confirmed Pakistan's 64th case of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) for 2024. The latest case has been reported from Jacobabad, Sindh—marking the fourth case in the district this year.
This year has seen a worrying resurgence of WPV1 in Pakistan, with cases spread across multiple regions. Of the 64 cases reported so far, Balochistan leads with 26, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (18), Sindh (18), and one case each from Punjab and Islamabad.
Polio vaccination campaign in full swing
Health officials have reiterated the importance of vaccination to combat the polio outbreak. A nationwide campaign is underway, aiming to vaccinate over 44 million children under five years old across 143 districts.
Speaking on the latest development, an official from the laboratory urged parents to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine. “To keep children safe, it is critical for parents to welcome vaccinators and bring their children forward for vaccination,” the official emphasized.
The resurgence of WPV1 in Pakistan underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to protect the nation's children. Parents are strongly encouraged to prioritize vaccination to ensure the virus does not spread further.