What Do the Two New Polio Cases in Pakistan Mean for 2025?
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Synopsis
Two new polio cases have emerged in Pakistan, highlighting a concerning trend in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As the total for 2025 reaches 26, the National Institute of Health emphasizes the need for urgent vaccination efforts. Children in hard-to-reach areas remain most vulnerable, prompting a renewed vaccination campaign.
Key Takeaways
- 26 total polio cases reported in 2025.
- New cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa highlight ongoing risks.
- Vaccination is essential for prevention.
- Children in remote areas are most vulnerable.
- A sub-national campaign is currently underway.
Islamabad, Sep 15 (NationPress) Two new cases of the polio virus have been confirmed in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, raising the overall count for 2025 to 26, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) on Monday.
One of the new cases involves a 19-month-old child from Mir Ali tehsil in North Waziristan, while the other case is an 11-month-old infant from Suleman Khel tehsil in Lakki Marwat. These recent cases bring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's total to 18, as reported by Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn.
With a total of 26 polio cases reported in Pakistan, the breakdown includes six from Sindh, 18 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and one each from Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan, according to the NIH.
Polio is a highly contagious disease primarily affecting children under the age of five, as noted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Although there is no cure, vaccination is the key to prevention. Currently, Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only two countries where Wild Poliovirus remains endemic. Furthermore, polio workers in Pakistan have often been targeted in violent attacks.
Addressing the results from environmental sewage samples collected from 87 districts across Pakistan in August, the NIH reported that of the 126 samples tested, 75 were negative for the poliovirus, while 51 tested positive.
In Balochistan, out of 23 samples, only one was positive, while 10 out of 34 samples tested in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were positive. In Punjab, 14 out of 31 samples were positive, with one positive sample each from Islamabad and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan.
The NIH expressed concern over the persistent reports of polio cases in Pakistan, particularly in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing that children in remote areas and those in communities with low vaccination rates are at the highest risk. In light of this, a sub-national vaccination campaign has been launched in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, lasting until September 18.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing threat posed by polio in Pakistan. The recent increase in cases, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, calls for immediate action and widespread vaccination campaigns. Our commitment to protecting children in vulnerable communities remains steadfast, and we must prioritize public health initiatives to eradicate this disease.
NationPress
15/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent polio case numbers in Pakistan?
Pakistan has reported two new polio cases, bringing the total for 2025 to 26.
Which provinces are affected by polio in Pakistan?
The recent cases are primarily from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with additional cases from Sindh, Punjab, and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan.
How does polio affect children?
Polio is highly infectious and primarily affects children under five years old, leading to severe health complications.
What is being done to combat polio in Pakistan?
A sub-national vaccination campaign has been launched in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to address the rising cases.
Why are polio workers targeted in Pakistan?
Polio workers in Pakistan face violence due to various socio-political factors, which hinders vaccination efforts.
