Poliovirus has been detected in an environmental sample collected from Lasbela, Pakistan, marking the 173rd positive sample in 2024 across 44 districts. The sample, taken from the sewage of Jamala Muhallah on May 21, tested positive for Type-1 Wild Poliovirus. This is the third positive sewage sample for poliovirus in Lasbela this year.

Increase in Positive Samples

The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health recently confirmed Type-1 Wild Poliovirus in Dukki and Killa Saifullah. Last week, Pakistan reported its fourth poliovirus case of the year, involving a 2-year-old boy from Bharkan union council in Sindh’s Shikarpur district. The boy developed paralysis symptoms on May 21.

Ongoing Polio Challenge

Pakistan, alongside Afghanistan, remains one of the only countries where poliovirus is endemic. The virus, which can cause paralysis and be life-threatening, continues to pose significant public health challenges. This year alone, Pakistan has reported 173 positive environmental samples and four polio cases, three of which were from Balochistan.

Polio Eradication Efforts

Efforts to eradicate poliovirus in Pakistan are ongoing, with authorities focusing on environmental surveillance and immunization campaigns. The detection of poliovirus in environmental samples underscores the need for continued vigilance and robust public health initiatives.

By monitoring and addressing the presence of poliovirus, Pakistan aims to eliminate this debilitating disease and protect future generations from its effects.

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