The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) of Pakistan confirmed the detection of poliovirus in 22 environmental samples taken from various parts of the country, despite recent progress in vaccination efforts,
According to the NEOC, 56 environmental samples were taken from 44 districts, 22 of which were tested positive for the virus. The authorities have recognized that the presence of the virus remains a challenge but has credited recent vaccination campaigns to considerably reduce transmission.
The second national immunization campaign for the 2025 polio was carried out from April 21 to 27, vaccinating more than 45.3 million children under the age of five. The health authorities have reported strong coverage nationwide, declaring that all the provinces and regions had achieved or exceeded their objectives.
The NEOC said that “consecutive vaccination campaigns in February and April” were essential to the recent decline in the circulation of viruses. However, he stressed that “continuous vigilance is essential to stop the additional spread”.
The third national campaign is scheduled for next month. The Neoc has urged parents to cooperate fully with health workers and to ensure that 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”.
