Have Two More Polio Cases Emerged in Pakistan?
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Synopsis
With alarming news from Sindh province, the detection of two additional polio cases has pushed Pakistan's total to 29 in 2025. The NIH is urging a major vaccination campaign to protect millions of children at risk. Will this campaign be enough to eradicate polio once and for all?
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan has confirmed a total of 29 polio cases in 2025.
- Two new cases were reported in Sindh province.
- A nationwide vaccination campaign will occur from October 13 to 19.
- Approximately 45.4 million children under five will be targeted.
- Parents are urged to ensure their children receive all vaccinations.
Islamabad, Sep 30 (NationPress) - Reports indicate that two additional cases of poliovirus have been identified in Pakistan's Sindh province, bringing the total number of confirmed cases nationwide for the year 2025 to 29, as per the National Institute of Health (NIH), local media outlets reported on Tuesday.
The latest cases were confirmed in the Badin and Thatta districts, following an earlier case in the Hyderabad district, raising the provincial total to nine.
According to a statement from the NIH on Monday, "With these two new cases, both involving female patients, the cumulative number of polio cases in Pakistan for 2025 has now reached 29," which includes 18 cases from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, nine from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, as reported by the Pakistani daily The Express Tribune.
The NIH emphasized that the forthcoming nationwide vaccination campaign, scheduled from October 13 to 19, aims to reach about 45.4 million children under the age of five.
These vaccination initiatives are designed to "swiftly enhance children's immunity and fortify protection as part of Pakistan's ongoing campaign to eliminate polio," urging parents and guardians to ensure their children are vaccinated.
"Eradicating polio is a collective duty. While committed frontline workers administer vaccines, it is vital for parents and caregivers to confirm their children receive all necessary doses, including routine immunizations," the NIH added.
Earlier this month, three cases of the poliovirus were reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the NIH.
One case involved a 19-month-old infant in North Waziristan's Mir Ali tehsil, while another was detected in an 11-month-old baby from Suleman Khel tehsil in Lakki Marwat. Additionally, a 20-month-old girl from Union Council Ping A in Tank district was also affected.
Polio is an extremely contagious viral disease that predominantly affects children under the age of five, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
While there is no cure for polio, it can be prevented through immunization. The polio vaccine, administered multiple times, can safeguard a child for their entire life. The ongoing detection of polio cases underscores that children remain vulnerable in areas where vaccination rates are low.
Pakistan and Afghanistan are the last two nations globally where the Wild Poliovirus is still prevalent. Polio workers have frequently been subjected to attacks, especially in the northwestern and southwestern regions.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight that the ongoing threat of polio in Pakistan demands a unified response. The recent rise in cases emphasizes the need for public awareness and proactive vaccination initiatives. We stand by the nation's health authorities in their efforts to combat this disease to protect our youngest and most vulnerable citizens.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent polio case statistics in Pakistan?
As of now, Pakistan has reported a total of 29 polio cases in 2025, with new cases emerging in Sindh province.
When is the next vaccination campaign in Pakistan?
The nationwide vaccination campaign is scheduled from October 13 to 19, targeting around 45.4 million children under five.
What is polio and how can it be prevented?
Polio is a highly infectious viral disease primarily affecting children under five. It can be prevented through multiple doses of the polio vaccine.
Which regions in Pakistan are most affected by polio?
The regions most affected include Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, with attacks on polio workers reported in various areas.
Why is vaccination important for polio eradication?
Vaccination is the only way to prevent polio, as there is no cure for the disease. High vaccination coverage is essential to protect children.
