In a troubling development, the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme has confirmed that wild poliovirus type 1 was detected in 47 environmental samples collected from across the country in May. The findings have sparked fresh concerns over the virus’s silent spread.
Out of 116 samples taken from various districts, nearly 40% tested positive for the virus. The contaminated samples were traced to sewage systems in 34 districts, including 14 in Sindh, eight in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, six in Balochistan, four in Punjab, and one each from Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan.
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Officials warn that the detection of the virus in sewage water signals continued circulation of the disease, even in areas where no recent polio cases have been reported. “The presence of the virus is a serious threat to children’s health,” said a spokesperson, urging parents to ensure their children receive polio drops during every campaign.
Pakistan remains one of only two countries where polio is still endemic, alongside Afghanistan. Health experts stress that only consistent immunisation and public cooperation can bring the country closer to eradication.
