The health authorities in Pakistan have confirmed a new case of wild poliovirus in the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, which marks the first instance of the virus reported from the region.
The case, verified by the regional reference laboratory for the eradication of polyomyelitis at the National Health Institute (NIH), is the eleventh confirmed case of wild poliovirus in the country until now in 2025.
Afghanistan and Pakistan are still the only two countries in the world where polyomyelitis remains endemic.
READ MORE: Saudi Arabia compromises $ 500 million to end polyomyelitis in Pakistan, Afghanistan
The announcement occurred shortly after the conclusion of the third vaccination campaign of Pakistan’s polyomyelitis throughout the year, which began on May 26 and ended Sunday.
The campaign reached more than 45 million children under five years in 159 districts, including many considered high risk for the virus.
Poly is a highly infectious viral disease without a cure. It can cause irreversible paralysis, particularly in young children. Health experts emphasize that repeated doses of the polyomyelitis vaccine are the only effective way to protect children against the disease.
Health officials have renewed parents and caregivers so that their children do not miss any immunization opportunity. Each dose administered, they say, helps develop a stronger immunity and safeguard children from the consequences of the lifetime of polyomyelitis.
READ: Recovered kidnapped polio worker
The virus remains a threat in Pakistan, which registered 74 cases only in 2024.
“This case is a marked reminder that the polio is still a threat,” said an official of the Pakistan Polyomyelitis Eradication Program. “No child should be left behind.”
The authorities continue to depend on the participation of the community to ensure total coverage and avoid any resurgence of the virus.
Last week, a police officer was martyred and another wounded officer when unidentified assailants opened fire against a polio vaccination team in Nushki, Baluchistan, Tuesday. The team was doing a routine immunization work when the attack occurred.
Pokistan polyomyelitis teams have frequently directed in mortal attacks, particularly in remote areas or affected by conflicts.
Read: Two polio workers kidnapped in the KP Tanks District
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif firmly condemned the incident, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protect health workers and continue the fight against polyomyelitis.
