The alarming presence of the polio virus has been confirmed in 10 sewage samples collected from various regions in Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).
According to media reports that sewage samples obtained from Karachi, Nasirabad, Quetta, Lower Dera, and Dera Bugti have tested positive for the polio virus. In a concerning development, polio virus was detected in 22 sewage samples within a single week, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 56 this year.
Sampling conducted from February 19 to 21 tar-geted affected cities, uncovering the prevalence of the virus in multiple regions. Karachi East, in par-ticular, witnessed five environmental samples test-ing positive for polio. Additionally, sewage lines in Machhar Colony, Chakoda Nala, Sohrab Goth, and Rashid Minhas areas of Karachi have also been identified as polio-positive zones. Karachi East’s genetic link to Quetta and Sibi further underscores the gravity of the situation.
Further reports indicate the presence of the polio virus in Hijrat Colony of Karachi South, genetically connected to Kemari, heightening concerns over the virus’s spread.
In Balochistan, polio-positive sewage was detected in Labor Nala in the Dera Bugti area, with genetic ties to Quetta. Similarly, the sewage at the railway bridge in Quetta marked the sixth polio case in the city this year.
KPK has not been spared, as polio virus was found in the sewage of Wapda Colony in Naseer Abar, and Lower Dir’s Shaheed Chowk. The genetic associa-tion between Lower Dir sewage and Kohat adds complexity to the region’s polio containment efforts. As authorities grapple with the resurgence of polio, urgent measures are imperative to contain the spread and safeguard vulnerable populations.
Further reports indicate the presence of the polio virus in Hijrat Colony of Karachi South, genetically connected to Kemari, heightening concerns over the virus’s spread.
In Balochistan, polio-positive sewage was detected in Labor Nala in the Dera Bugti area, with genetic ties to Quetta. Similarly, the sewage at the railway bridge in Quetta marked the sixth polio case in the city this year.
