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Islamabad, Pakistan – A recent report from the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication, operating under Pakistan’s National Institute of Health, has confirmed the alarming presence of wild poliovirus type 1 in sewerage samples collected from 12 districts across three provinces. This discovery has raised significant public health concerns, reinforcing the urgency of ongoing polio eradication efforts.
According to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) for Polio, the virus was identified in environmental samples collected from sewerage lines between February 17 and 26. The affected provinces include Punjab, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Specifically, the virus was detected in the following districts:
- Punjab: Lahore, Multan, Kasur, Bahawalpur, and DG Khan.
- Balochistan: Quetta, Sibi, Dera Bugti, and Lasbela.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: South Waziristan, Charsadda, and Swabi.
The NEOC reported that sewerage samples were collected from a total of 127 locations nationwide for testing. The detection of the virus in these 12 districts underscores the continued circulation of poliovirus within the country.
Pakistan, alongside Afghanistan, remains one of the last two countries where polio is still endemic. This situation demands heightened vigilance and intensified immunization campaigns.
Adding to the concern, Pakistan has reported six polio cases in 2025, with four of those cases occurring in Sindh. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the critical importance of administering multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and ensuring that all children under five complete their routine vaccination schedules. Achieving high immunity levels is essential to combat this debilitating disease.
The presence of poliovirus in environmental samples serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat and the need for sustained efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by ARY News and the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) for Polio. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to consult official sources for the latest updates and health recommendations. The information provided should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.
