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Islamabad, May 22, 2025 — Pakistan has reported two new cases of polio, raising concerns among health officials as the country prepares for a major nationwide vaccination campaign. The latest cases were confirmed in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bringing the total number of polio cases in Pakistan this year to four.
According to authorities, both cases involved children under the age of five. Health officials are investigating the source of the infections and have launched emergency response measures in the affected districts to prevent further spread of the virus.
The new cases come just days before Pakistan is set to begin a large-scale polio vaccination drive targeting millions of children across the country. The campaign aims to reach remote and high-risk areas, where vaccine hesitancy and logistical challenges have historically hampered eradication efforts.
Pakistan remains one of only two countries in the world, alongside Afghanistan, where polio is still classified as endemic. The government, in collaboration with international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, continues to work towards the goal of complete polio eradication.
Health officials have urged parents to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine during the upcoming campaign. “Vaccination is the only way to protect our children from this crippling disease,” said a spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Health.
Despite significant progress in recent years, sporadic outbreaks continue to threaten the country’s efforts to eliminate polio. Authorities have reiterated the importance of community cooperation and vigilance, especially in regions with low immunization coverage.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Anadolu Agency as of May 22, 2025. For the latest updates and detailed guidance, please consult official sources such as Pakistan’s Ministry of Health or the World Health Organization.
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