Latest Polio Case Reported in KP
On December 30, 2024, Pakistan confirmed its 68th polio case in Dera Ismail Khan, KP. The NIH identified wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) as the cause, highlighting ongoing challenges in eradicating the disease.
Polio Endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan
Global Polio Status
Polio remains endemic in only two countries worldwide:
- Pakistan
- Afghanistan
The virus poses severe risks to children under five, often causing paralysis or death. Misinformation, security challenges, and vaccine hesitancy hinder eradication efforts.
Environmental Samples Indicate Ongoing Polio Presence
Detection in Affected Districts
Wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) was found in environmental samples from 26 districts. This discovery underscores the urgent need for continuous vaccination and surveillance.
2024 Polio Cases: Regional Distribution
Polio Cases by Region
The distribution of polio cases in Pakistan shows a clear regional disparity:
| Region | Cases Reported |
|---|---|
| Balochistan | 27 |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) | 20 |
| Sindh | 19 |
| Punjab | 1 |
| Islamabad | 1 |
Balochistan, KP, and Sindh account for most of the cases, emphasizing the need for targeted vaccination efforts in these areas.
Polio: A Preventable but Devastating Disease
No Cure, Only Vaccination
Polio is caused by the poliovirus, leading to paralysis and even death. Since there is no cure, vaccination is the only way to prevent it. The oral polio vaccine (OPV) is highly effective, requiring multiple doses for complete immunity.
Critical Role of Vaccination in Polio Prevention
Vaccination Schedule Saves Lives
Completing the full vaccination schedule is crucial for protecting children under five. The Pakistan Polio Programme conducts regular mass campaigns to ensure all children receive necessary doses.
Mass Vaccination Campaigns in December 2024
Vaccination Efforts in Key Regions
The Pakistan Polio Programme has intensified its efforts:
| Campaign Phase | Coverage | Children Vaccinated |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Dec 16–22) | Punjab, Sindh, KP, AJK, GB, Islamabad | Over 42 million |
| Phase 2 | Balochistan (36 districts) | Ongoing |
These campaigns aim to increase vaccine coverage in high-risk areas, reducing the virus’s spread.
Parents: Key Players in Polio Eradication
Ensure Full Vaccination
Parents must actively participate in vaccination drives and ensure their children complete the full vaccine schedule to protect against polio.
Pakistan’s Path to a Polio-Free Future
Collective Responsibility for Eradication
Eradicating polio requires sustained efforts from the government, health organizations, and communities. Together, Pakistan can achieve a polio-free future through consistent vaccination, awareness campaigns, and collaboration.
