Polio, a disease that can lead to permanent paralysis and even death, continues to be a major public health issue in Pakistan. In spite of worldwide initiatives to eliminate the virus, Pakistan still reports cases, highlighting the difficulties in reaching total eradication.
Current Situation
As of April 2025, Pakistan has documented seven instances of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1). The latest instance was verified in a child from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. This indicates a troubling trend, as the nation recorded only one case in 2021 but experienced a notable rise to 74 cases in 2024.
Challenges to Eradication
Several factors contribute to the persistence of polio in Pakistan:
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Security Concerns: Polio vaccination teams often face threats from militants and local resistance. In April 2025, two security officials assigned to protect polio workers were killed in Balochistan
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Misinformation: False beliefs about the vaccine's safety and efficacy hinder vaccination efforts.
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Access Issues: Remote areas and regions with high population movement complicate vaccination campaigns.
Vaccination Efforts
In response to the rising threat, Pakistan has intensified its vaccination campaigns. In April 2025, a nationwide campaign aimed to vaccinate 45 million children . Additionally, targeted campaigns have been conducted in high-risk areas, including regions bordering Afghanistan and areas with Afghan refugee populations.
International Support
Global organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, continue to support Pakistan's polio eradication efforts. However, recent funding challenges, such as the reduction in U.S. contributions, have raised concerns about the sustainability of these initiatives .
Conclusion
The resurgence of polio cases in Pakistan highlights the ongoing challenges in eradicating the virus. Continued efforts, including enhanced security for vaccination teams, public education to combat misinformation, and sustained international support, are crucial to achieving a polio-free Pakistan. The global community must remain committed to supporting these efforts to protect future generations from this preventable disease.
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