Is Pakistan Facing a New Surge in Polio Cases with 30 Reported in 2025?
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Synopsis
In a concerning development, Pakistan has reported a rise in polio cases, bringing the total to 30 in 2025. A recent case in Torghar highlights the ongoing challenges in eradicating this disease, exacerbated by security threats and misinformation. What does this mean for the future of public health in Pakistan? Read on to find out.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan has reported 30 polio cases in 2025.
- New case detected in Torghar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Majority of cases are from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Security and misinformation hinder vaccination efforts.
- Health workers face dangers in the field.
Islamabad, Oct 21 (NationPress) - A new instance of wild poliovirus has emerged in Torghar, located in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, increasing the nationwide tally to 30 cases for the year 2025, according to reports.
As per a statement from the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Islamabad, the latest case involves a 12-month-old infant from Ghari union council, as noted by Pakistan's prominent publication, Dawn.
The breakdown of polio cases in 2025 shows that 19 cases originated from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 9 from Sindh, and one from both Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, as detailed in the report.
Moreover, the Pakistan Polio Programme analyzed 127 sewage samples across 87 districts throughout September. Among these, 81 samples were negative for poliovirus, while 44 confirmed positive, with two additional samples pending laboratory analysis.
Currently, Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only nations globally where wild poliovirus continues to be endemic. The polio eradication initiatives in Pakistan have faced significant hurdles, including security concerns, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation. The previous year, 2024, witnessed 71 reported polio cases, with the virus identified in approximately 90 districts.
Polio vaccination personnel have frequently been targets of violence, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Recently, a police constable assigned to protect a polio vaccination team was fatally shot by unidentified gunmen in the Kaahi area of Nizampur on October 15. The deceased constable was identified as Maqsood, aged 35, from Kheshgi. According to police reports, the incident unfolded while female health workers were administering polio drops to children.
Authorities have initiated a search operation to apprehend the assailants, who fled the scene. Just a day prior, on October 14, another Levies constable assigned for the safety of a vaccination team was shot in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as reported by local police.
The District Police Officer (DPO) of Swat, Muhammad Umar Khan, confirmed that the Levies constable was fulfilling his duties alongside a team of two female health workers at the time of the attack.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the ongoing battle against polio in Pakistan. The recent rise in cases underscores the urgent need for robust public health strategies and community engagement to combat misinformation and enhance vaccination efforts. Our commitment is to provide accurate reporting and foster awareness, ensuring the nation is informed and united in this crucial fight against polio.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of polio in Pakistan?
As of 2025, Pakistan has reported a total of 30 polio cases, with the majority stemming from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Why is polio still a concern in Pakistan?
Polio remains endemic in Pakistan due to challenges such as security issues, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation.
What areas are most affected by polio in Pakistan?
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is currently the most affected region, with 19 reported cases in 2025.
How is the government responding to polio cases?
The Pakistan Polio Programme continues to collect sewage samples and monitor the situation, while efforts to educate the public are ongoing.
What security challenges do polio workers face?
Polio workers in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan are at risk of attacks while carrying out their vaccination duties.
