Two More Children Diagnosed with Polio in Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Pakistan’s battle against polio continues as two new cases have been confirmed in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, raising the national total to 23 for the year. The latest infections involve a 16-month-old girl from Tank and a 2-year-old girl from North Waziristan, according to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health in Islamabad.

Breakdown of 2025 Polio Cases Across Provinces

The updated figures show that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the most affected region, with 15 cases reported so far. Sindh has recorded six cases, while Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan have each reported one. These numbers reflect ongoing challenges in reaching vulnerable populations and maintaining consistent immunization coverage.

Why Polio Remains a Threat

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause irreversible paralysis, especially in children under five. The only proven defense is through repeated doses of the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and timely completion of routine immunizations. Despite progress in eradication efforts, low vaccine acceptance and hard-to-reach communities continue to hinder success.

Upcoming Vaccination Campaigns to Combat Spread

In response to the rising cases, the National Emergency Operations Centre has announced a robust vaccination campaign. From September 1 to 7, 2025, over 28 million children under five will receive polio drops through a door-to-door initiative. In southern KP, the campaign will begin on September 15, targeting high-risk districts with intensified efforts.

Call to Action for Parents and Communities

Health officials are urging parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine during every campaign. Community support is vital—not only in vaccinating children but also in countering misinformation and encouraging others to participate. Polio eradication is a shared responsibility, and every dose counts.

Conclusion: Strengthening Immunity, One Child at a Time

The detection of new polio cases in KP serves as a stark reminder of the importance of sustained vaccination efforts. With coordinated campaigns and community engagement, Pakistan continues its push toward a polio-free future.