The National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed the sixth case of polio in Pakistan this year, with the latest infection detected in a child from Thatta district, Sindh. This marks the fourth polio case from Sindh in 2025, while one case each has been reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. The resurgence of the virus has raised concerns among health officials despite ongoing eradication efforts.
Pakistan has been battling polio for decades, with health authorities conducting nationwide immunization campaigns to curb the disease. However, challenges such as misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and logistical difficulties in remote areas continue to hinder progress. The latest case highlights the urgent need for increased vaccination coverage, particularly in high-risk districts where the virus remains a threat.
Health officials have urged parents to ensure their children receive polio drops during every immunization drive. They have also emphasized the importance of community cooperation in eliminating the virus. Last year, Pakistan recorded 74 polio cases, underscoring the persistent struggle to eradicate the disease.
The government, in collaboration with international health organizations, has been intensifying its efforts to strengthen polio surveillance and improve vaccine accessibility. Mobile health teams are being deployed in vulnerable regions to ensure that every child is vaccinated. Authorities have also been working to counter misinformation and encourage public trust in immunization programs.
Despite these efforts, the detection of another polio case in Thatta is a setback in Pakistan’s mission to become polio-free. The virus, which primarily affects young children, can lead to irreversible paralysis and even death in severe cases. Experts warn that until every child is immunized, polio remains a significant health risk.
The latest development serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in eradicating polio. Officials continue to stress the need for collective responsibility to protect future generations from the crippling disease. The success of Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts depends on sustained vaccination drives, public awareness, and proactive government measures to reach every child across the country.
