What Are the Latest Polio Cases in Pakistan?
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Synopsis
In 2025, Pakistan faces a rising challenge with three new polio cases reported, bringing the total to 17. The alarming spread underscores the importance of vaccination campaigns and public awareness efforts in combating this infectious disease, particularly among children. Stay informed and proactive in the fight against polio.
Key Takeaways
- Three new polio cases reported in Pakistan.
- Total cases in 2025 now stands at 17.
- Cases identified in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh.
- Vaccination crucial for prevention.
- Ongoing vaccination campaign synchronized with Afghanistan.
Islamabad, July 27 (NationPress) Three additional polio cases have emerged in Pakistan, elevating the cumulative total for 2025 to 17. The latest reports indicate that two cases originated from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and one from Sindh.
The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad has identified cases in the North Waziristan and Lakki Marwat regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as in Umerkot, Sindh, according to a report by The News International.
Among the new cases is a 15-month-old girl from the Union Council (UC) Takhtikhel in Lakki Marwat, a six-month-old girl from UC Mir Ali-3 in North Waziristan, and a five-year-old boy from UC Chajro in Umerkot.
The statement reveals that the total polio cases in Pakistan for 2025 have reached 17, with 10 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, five from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan.
Polio is a highly contagious viral illness primarily impacting children under the age of five, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although there is no cure for polio, it can be effectively prevented through vaccination. A series of polio vaccine doses offers lifelong protection for children.
In response to the rising cases, a targeted vaccination initiative is currently underway in the bordering Union Councils from July 21 to 27, in conjunction with Afghanistan’s sub-national polio campaign.
The announcement also indicated that a fractional IPV-OPV campaign commenced in District Chaman on July 21 and will extend to six additional districts in Balochistan starting July 28.
Earlier in May, the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad disclosed that Wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) had been detected in sewage samples from 18 districts throughout Pakistan, as reported by Geo News.
The positive WPV1 samples were gathered between April 7-17 as part of ongoing environmental monitoring, according to a statement from the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
Testing was conducted on 38 environmental samples from sewage systems in 31 districts at the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the NIH. The laboratory confirmed that WPV1 was present in samples collected from Dera Ismail Khan, Sukkur, Karachi, Peshawar, Tank, North Waziristan, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Loralai, Quetta, Zhob, Islamabad, Abbottabad, Bannu, Badin, Jamshoro, Hyderabad, and Kashmore.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the nation in addressing the polio crisis. The recent rise in cases demands immediate action and awareness. It's imperative that we prioritize vaccination campaigns and work collaboratively to safeguard the health of our vulnerable populations, especially children. Our commitment to public health remains unwavering.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current total of polio cases in Pakistan for 2025?
As of now, Pakistan has reported a total of 17 polio cases in 2025.
Which regions in Pakistan are currently affected by polio?
The affected regions include Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, with specific cases reported in North Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, and Umerkot.
What age group is primarily at risk for polio?
Polio primarily affects children under the age of five.
How can polio be prevented?
Polio can be prevented through vaccination, with multiple doses providing lifelong protection to children.
What is the current vaccination campaign in Pakistan?
A special vaccination campaign is ongoing in the bordering Union Councils from July 21-27, synchronized with Afghanistan’s vaccination efforts.
