Have Two New Polio Cases in Pakistan Raised the 2025 Tally to 21?
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Synopsis
Two new polio cases in Pakistan have raised concerns as the country grapples with the ongoing threat of this infectious disease. With the current tally reaching 21 for the year, health authorities are ramping up vaccination efforts and urging parents to protect their children. How can we ensure a polio-free future for the next generation?
Key Takeaways
- Two new polio cases reported in Pakistan.
- Total cases for 2025 reach 21.
- Polio primarily affects children under five.
- Upcoming vaccination campaign from September 1-7.
- Community cooperation is essential for eradication efforts.
Islamabad, Aug 18 (NationPress) Two additional cases of polio have been identified in Pakistan, as reported by the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH). One case originates from the Lower Kohistan district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while the other has been identified in Badin district of Sindh, local media disclosed on Monday.
The cases involve a six-year-old girl from Pattan in Lower Kohistan, and a 21-month-old girl from Matli-2, Badin, as noted by The News International. Following these discoveries, the total number of reported polio cases in Pakistan for the current year has escalated to 21, comprising 13 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, six from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB).
Polio is a highly contagious viral illness primarily affecting children under five years old, as stated by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Although there is no cure for polio, it can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The polio vaccine, administered multiple times, can provide lifelong protection for a child.
The ongoing identification of polio cases indicates that children remain endangered in regions where fewer individuals are willing to vaccinate their children.
Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only nations globally where Wild Poliovirus continues to be endemic. Polio workers have frequently faced attacks, especially in the northwest and southwest areas.
A Sub-National Polio Vaccination Campaign is set to occur in Pakistan from September 1-7, targeting 28 million children under five years old across 99 districts throughout all provinces and regions, according to the report.
The vaccination initiative in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will commence on September 15, aiming to ensure that every child in these districts is immunized against polio.
This campaign is part of the Pakistani government's efforts to enhance immunity among children against polio and to bridge existing protection gaps. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine during the campaign.
Earlier on August 12, health authorities revealed that Wild Poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) was discovered in sewage samples from 42 sites across Pakistan.
A total of 127 sewage samples were collected from 87 districts throughout July, according to analysis by the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the NIH in Islamabad, as reported by Xinhua News Agency. Among these, 42 samples were positive, 75 were negative, and 10 are still under examination.
Point of View
I believe it is imperative for us to unify our efforts in combating polio in Pakistan. The recent surge in polio cases underscores the importance of vaccination and community cooperation. We must advocate for a fully immunized generation and support health initiatives that aim to protect our children from this preventable disease. Our nation deserves a future free from polio.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent polio statistics in Pakistan?
As of now, Pakistan has reported 21 polio cases in 2025, with 13 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, six from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and PoGB.
What age group is primarily affected by polio?
Polio predominantly affects children under the age of five, making vaccination essential for their protection.
How can polio be prevented?
Polio can be prevented through immunization with the polio vaccine, which provides lifelong protection when administered multiple times.
When is the upcoming polio vaccination campaign scheduled?
The Sub-National Polio Vaccination Campaign is scheduled from September 1-7, targeting 28 million children under five years.
Why are there still polio cases in Pakistan?
The continued detection of polio cases indicates that many children remain unvaccinated due to hesitancy in certain areas.
