4 more children crippled by poliovirus in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s polio eradication initiative authorities Tuesday reported four new cases of children paralysed by poliovirus, bringing the total number of cases in the country this year to 32.

The cases were detected in districts of Jacobabad, Karachi-Malir and Dera Ismail Khan, further highlighting continued circulation of the virus despite intensified eradication efforts.

The latest cases include a 32-month-old girl and an 18-month-old boy from Jacobabad, a 72-month-old boy from Karachi-Malir and a 22-month-old boy from Dera Ismail Khan.

Anwarul Haq, Coordinator of National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, expressed concern over the increasing number of cases. He said, “Our team is supporting both provinces in their response to the outbreak”.

He said joint case investigations are underway, with high-quality vaccination rounds and health services are being implemented in high-risk communities to boost children’s immunity.

Health experts warn more cases could emerge in October, as the virus remains active in many parts of the country. Some estimate the total number of cases may rise to 65 by the end of year, raising alarms among both local and international health authorities. Pakistan’s nationwide polio campaign is set to launch on October 28, aiming to vaccinate over 45 million children.