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Islamabad, June 4, 2025 — Pakistan has reported its eleventh case of wild poliovirus for the year, with the latest case emerging from District Diamer in Gilgit-Baltistan. This marks the first confirmed polio case from the region, according to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health.
The newly confirmed case brings Pakistan’s total to eleven so far in 2025, with five cases from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, four from Sindh, one from Punjab, and now one from Gilgit-Baltistan. Globally, there have been thirteen wild poliovirus cases this year, including two in Afghanistan. In comparison, 2024 saw a total of 99 cases (74 in Pakistan and 25 in Afghanistan).
Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by the poliovirus, which primarily affects children under five. The virus spreads mainly through the fecal-oral route, multiplying in the intestine and shedding into the environment, especially in areas with poor sanitation. The disease can lead to lifelong paralysis or even death.
Nationwide Vaccination Efforts
Pakistan recently concluded its third nationwide polio vaccination campaign of 2025, which began on May 26. The campaign reached over 45 million children under five across 159 districts, including high-risk areas. Health officials emphasize the importance of ensuring every child receives the polio vaccine, as each dose strengthens immunity and protection against the disease.
“Every dose of polio vaccine provides an opportunity to further strengthen immunity and protection against lifelong paralysis,” said a spokesperson for the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme. “With polio still a threat, community support is vital—no child should be missed.”
Religious Endorsements and International Measures
The oral polio vaccine (OPV) is widely regarded as safe and has been declared halal by numerous Islamic authorities, including the Grand Sheik Tantawi of Al-Azhar University, the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, and the Majelis Council of Ulemmas in Indonesia. Other international Islamic institutions and scholars from all sects in Pakistan have also endorsed the vaccine.
In a move to prevent the spread of polio, the Government of Saudi Arabia requires all Haj travellers from polio-endemic countries to be vaccinated, regardless of age or previous vaccination status.
Ongoing Vigilance Needed
Health officials urge parents to ensure their children do not miss any opportunity to receive polio drops, as the fight against polio continues in Pakistan and globally.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Outbreak News Today as of June 4, 2025. For the latest updates and official guidance, please consult the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services. The information provided here is for general awareness and should not replace professional medical advice.
