Polio Continues to Challenge Pakistan with New Case in Killa Abdullah

Islamabad: A new case of polio has been reported in Killa Abdullah, marking the 13th incident in Pakistan this year and underscoring the ongoing struggle against the disease in the region. An 11-month-old infant has been paralyzed by the wild poliovirus, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in local vaccination efforts.

According to Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health confirmed the case after the child developed symptoms of paralysis on July 17. This case is the fifth from Killa Abdullah this year, intensifying concerns over the spread of polio in historically vulnerable areas such as Quetta, Chaman, and Killa Abdullah.

Dr. Malik Mukhtar Bharat, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, expressed deep concern over the persistent polio detections in Balochistan. “Protecting children from this devastating disease is the paramount priority of the government,” he stated, emphasizing a collaborative effort with the provincial government to bolster immunization initiatives and build children’s immunity against polio.

Ayesha Raza Farooq, Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication, detailed ongoing strategies to combat the outbreak, noting that the provincial government is addressing the situation with urgency. “We are re-grouping efforts and momentum with our provincial colleagues to urgently plug these gaps to curb further spread of the virus,” she explained.

Anwarul Haq, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Center, highlighted the need for relentless vigilance and urgent action to prevent further cases, especially in high-risk districts like Killa Abdullah.

This latest case reflects broader challenges faced by the national polio eradication efforts, prompting a re-evaluation of strategies to ensure no child is missed in upcoming vaccination drives.

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