The presence of poliovirus has been confirmed in sewage samples collected from Karachi’s Kemari and Peshawar, according to sources on Thursday. Samples taken on June 3rd and 4th revealed the presence of wild poliovirus type 1, as well as vaccine-derived poliovirus types 2 and 3. In 2024, a total of 185 samples from across all four provinces of Pakistan have tested positive for poliovirus, underscoring ongoing challenges in eradication efforts. Reports indicate polio cases have been reported in 45 districts nationwide.
This year, Pakistan has already recorded five polio cases. Tragically, one child infected with the disease has succumbed, highlighting the severity of the ongoing battle against polio. Efforts to combat polio remain critical, with health authorities emphasizing the importance of vaccination campaigns and heightened surveillance to contain the spread of the virus.
The latest findings in sewage samples from major cities like Karachi and Peshawar serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by polio in the region.
