The National Emergency Operations Center for Pakistan (NEOC) has confirmed the detection of poliovirus in 22 environmental samples collected from various parts of the country, despite the recent progress in vaccination efforts,
According to the NEOC, 56 environmental samples of 44 districts were collected, of which 22 gave positive for the virus. The authorities recognized that the presence of the virus remains a challenge, but accredited recent immunization campaigns with a significantly reductive transmission.
The second unity of immunization of national polyomyelitis of 2025 was carried out from April 21 to 27, vaccinating more than 45.3 million children under five years. Health authorities reported strong coverage throughout the country, stating that all provinces and regions fulfilled or exceeded their objectives.
The NEOC said that “consecutive immunization campaigns in February and April” were key to the recent decrease in virus circulation. However, he emphasized that “continuous surveillance is essential to stop greater propagation.”
The third national campaign is scheduled for next month. The NEOC urged parents to cooperate completely with health workers and make sure all eligible children receive the vaccine. He also reiterated that the repeated doses of the oral polio vaccine are “safe and necessary to build long -term immunity.”
