Pakistan Registers Another Polio Case; Tally Of Infections Rises to 6
Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate polio faced a setback as the country registered yet another case, bringing the tally of infections to six this year. A nine-month-old girl from the Orakzai district in the northwest Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province was diagnosed with the virus and left paralyzed, according to a report by the National Institute of Health (NIH).
This recent case marks the fourth polio infection detected in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, with an additional two cases reported in Sindh province. In comparison, last year witnessed 20 polio cases throughout the country. However, 2021 showed some progress, with only one reported case, according to data from the Pakistan Polio Eradication Program.
Reacting to the somber news, Federal Minister for Health Dr Nadeem Jan expressed his dismay, stating, I am deeply saddened that this virus has robbed yet another child of the opportunity to live a healthy life and to live up to its potential. He urged parents and caregivers across the nation to grasp the risk posed to children and emphasized the importance of administering the polio vaccine, which can prevent lifelong disabilities and save lives. Dr. Jan underlined, Until we eradicate this virus, this disease will continue to remain a persistent threat, not just to our children, but children across the world.
Highlighting the prevalence of the polio virus, the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the NIH reported that 20 environmental samples collected from 12 districts had tested positive for wild poliovirus type 1.
The ongoing presence of polio cases in Pakistan underscores the urgent need for intensified efforts to combat this stubborn disease. It is crucial that parents and communities understand the immense benefits of immunization and work together to protect children from polio’s debilitating effects.
As the world continues its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, the persistence of polio serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining vaccination programs and prioritizing the well-being of our children’s health.
In conclusion, the recent polio case in Pakistan emphasizes the ongoing challenge to eradicate this disease. While progress has been made, the battle against polio requires unwavering commitment from all stakeholders to safeguard the future generations against the devastating effects of this preventable disease. Only through collective efforts can we hope to eliminate polio from Pakistani soil, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for all.
