Polio Virus Detected in Environmental Samples Across 15 Districts in Pakistan

The presence of Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1) has been confirmed in environmental samples collected from 15 districts across Pakistan, signaling a continued threat in the country’s battle against polio.

According to sources, the latest environmental testing, conducted between March 4 and 12, revealed the presence of the virus in sewage samples from multiple locations. These findings were confirmed by officials at the Regional Reference Laboratory, which reported contamination in sewage lines across all four provinces.

The affected districts include nine in Sindh, four in Punjab, and one each in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). In Sindh, the virus was detected in Karachi East, South, Korangi, Malir, Larkana, Jamshoro, Ghotki, Kashmore, and Mirpurkhas. Meanwhile, in Punjab, positive samples were found in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala. Quetta in Balochistan and Tank in KP also recorded polio-positive environmental samples.

Health authorities have expressed concern over the findings, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and enhanced vaccination efforts to protect children from polio. The detection of the virus in sewage systems serves as a warning sign, emphasizing the importance of sustained public health measures and comprehensive immunization campaigns to prevent outbreaks.

Polio eradication efforts in Pakistan have faced significant challenges, particularly in areas where access to health services is limited or where there are security concerns. However, authorities remain committed to tackling the disease, with extensive vaccination drives and surveillance measures in place across the country.

The recent detection of WPV1 reinforces the urgency of immunization programs, especially in high-risk districts. The government, in collaboration with international organizations, is working to ensure that every child is vaccinated against the potentially crippling disease.