Pakistan has announced a renewed push to eliminate polio, with federal and provincial authorities agreeing on stronger coordination and intensified vaccination efforts, particularly in high-risk districts. Officials described the coming months as critical to achieving complete eradication of the disease.
Key decisions
- Intensified vaccination campaigns: Authorities will expand and strengthen door-to-door immunization drives to ensure every child under five receives the polio vaccine.
- Improved coordination: Federal, provincial, and district administrations will work more closely to improve campaign quality and quickly address gaps in coverage.
- Enhanced surveillance: Health teams will increase environmental and disease surveillance to detect and respond rapidly to any poliovirus circulation.
- Focus on high-risk areas: Special attention will be given to districts where transmission risk remains highest, alongside efforts to improve access and community engagement.
- Security and partner support: The initiative will continue with support from international health partners while ensuring the safety of vaccination teams.
Current situation
Officials report that Pakistan has reduced polio cases by 99.8% compared with the early 1990s. According to the latest official update, 3 wild poliovirus cases had been confirmed in 2026, highlighting significant progress while underscoring the need to maintain vaccination efforts until transmission is completely stopped.
