Pakistan Reports New Polio Case in DI Khan as 2024 Tally Reaches 72

Pakistan has confirmed another case of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1), bringing the total number of cases in 2024 to 72.

Health officials reported that the latest case involves a girl from Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with samples collected on December 31, 2024. This marks the 11th polio case from DI Khan this year.

The announcement comes a day after the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH) confirmed the 71st case in Jacobabad, Sindh.

National Tally Highlights Regional Distribution

In 2024, Balochistan has reported the highest number of WPV1 cases at 27, followed by 22 in KP, 21 in Sindh, and one each in Punjab and Islamabad. These figures underscore the persistent challenge Pakistan faces in eradicating the virus, despite frequent mass vaccination efforts.

Health Officials Stress Vaccination Importance

Polio remains a paralysing disease with no known cure. Health experts have reiterated the critical importance of vaccination to build immunity among children under five.

“Multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and completion of the routine immunisation schedule are essential to protect children from this devastating virus,” said a senior health official.

Upcoming Nationwide Vaccination Drive

The Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, in partnership with the Expanded Program on Immunisation (EPI), will launch the first nationwide vaccination campaign of 2025 from February 3 to February 9.

Thousands of health workers will mobilise to vaccinate children at health centres and door-to-door to ensure no child is missed.

The EPI also continues to offer free immunisation services against 12 childhood diseases, including polio, at healthcare facilities nationwide.

Challenges in Eradication Efforts

Efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan have faced significant hurdles, including vaccine hesitancy and logistical challenges in remote areas.

Despite these obstacles, health officials remain determined to eliminate the virus.

They cite years of progress in reducing cases and highlight the importance of public cooperation in achieving a polio-free Pakistan.

Collaboration and Public Awareness

The upcoming vaccination drive will involve close coordination with community leaders and international health organisations to boost public trust and awareness.

Health authorities urge parents to ensure their children under five are vaccinated during the campaign.

Officials remain optimistic that sustained efforts and community participation will ultimately lead to the successful eradication of polio in Pakistan.