Article, South KP, Pakistan – Health authorities have confirmed a new case of polio infection in a high-risk district of South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, triggering immediate vaccination and awareness campaigns to prevent further spread of the virus.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the latest case was detected after lab tests confirmed the presence of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in a young child from the district. This confirmation has heightened concerns among public health experts, as South KP remains one of the most challenging areas for polio eradication in Pakistan.
A Persistent Challenge in High-Risk Areas
The affected district has been consistently classified as a polio high-risk zone due to factors such as limited healthcare access, vaccine refusals, and frequent population movement. Local health workers report that despite repeated Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs), certain communities remain underserved, allowing the poliovirus to circulate.
Dr. Shahzad Baig, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, emphasized the urgency of the situation:
“Every new case is a setback, but also a reminder that we cannot afford complacency. Our teams are working around the clock to ensure every child is vaccinated.”
Rapid Response Initiatives
Following the confirmation, the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) launched a door-to-door vaccination campaign targeting thousands of children under the age of five in the affected district and surrounding areas. Mobile health teams have also been deployed to reach nomadic and hard-to-access populations.
In addition, public awareness drives are being intensified through local mosques, schools, and community gatherings to counter misinformation about polio vaccines — a significant barrier in the region.
Pakistan’s Ongoing Polio Battle
Pakistan is one of only two countries in the world — alongside Afghanistan — where wild poliovirus remains endemic. While the number of cases has dropped drastically over the past decade, sporadic outbreaks still occur in high-risk zones.
Health experts stress that vaccination coverage must be consistent and nationwide to completely break the transmission cycle. Any missed child represents a potential link in the chain of infection.
For example, in recent years, coordinated efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan have aimed to synchronize vaccination drives, particularly in border regions where population movement is high.
Community’s Role in Eradication
The fight against polio is not just a medical challenge but also a community responsibility. Local leaders, parents, and religious scholars have a vital role in ensuring vaccine acceptance. Efforts are being made to involve respected community influencers to encourage parents to immunize their children.
One local health volunteer, Fatima Bibi, shared her perspective:
“We go from house to house, sometimes facing rejection. But every vaccinated child is a victory for the future of our community.”
The Way Forward
With the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) supporting Pakistan’s campaign, the focus now is on improving surveillance, strengthening routine immunization, and building trust between health workers and communities.
Health officials have urged parents to cooperate fully with vaccination teams, stressing that the polio vaccine is safe, effective, and the only way to protect children from life-long disability.
