The number of polio cases in Pakistan has surged to 59 this year after three additional cases were confirmed, the National Institute of Health (NIH) reported on Monday.
The newly confirmed cases of Wild Polio Virus Type 1 (WPV1) have been recorded in DI Khan, Karachi Keamari, and Kashmore. The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the NIH verified these cases, linking them to a single genetic cluster of the WPV1 virus.
According to genetic sequencing results from the NIH, the samples collected from affected children are genetically connected to the same WPV1 strain, indicating a potential link in the spread of the virus.
As of now, Balochistan remains the most affected province with 26 confirmed cases. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa follows with 16, while Sindh has reported 15 cases.
Additionally, one case has been reported from Punjab, and another from Islamabad.
Health authorities have expressed concern over the recent surge in cases, emphasizing the importance of polio vaccination campaigns to prevent further spread of the virus.
Efforts are being intensified to reach children in high-risk areas, where access to vaccines remains a significant challenge due to various socio-political factors.
