Polio cases in Pakistan rise to 18 after fresh KPK case

The total number of polio cases reported in Pakistan during 2025 has reached 18, raising fresh concerns about the ongoing fight against the virus.

Health officials recently confirmed three new cases—two in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (North Waziristan and Lakki Marwat) and one in Umerkot, Sindh. In response, the National Polio Emergency Operations Centre is preparing a new strategy to deal with the ongoing challenges in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Officials said they are working to overcome transport issues and improve the quality of vaccination campaigns, especially in areas with high risk.

The centre has promised to keep fighting polio through long-term efforts and targeted action in communities where children remain unvaccinated. Health experts warned that polio mainly affects children with weak immune systems. They urged parents to ensure their children receive all scheduled vaccines. Skipping vaccinations not only puts those children in danger but also increases the risk for others around them.

Officials added that mobile vaccination teams and awareness campaigns are already active in affected areas. They aim to reach every child under the age of five and stop the virus from spreading further. Despite progress in recent years, polio remains a threat due to missed doses, poor access in some regions, and resistance from certain communities. The government has asked for public cooperation to support the ongoing eradication efforts. Authorities believe that with better planning, stronger field teams, and community support, Pakistan can defeat polio once and for all.