Polio Cases Surge in Balochistan, Health Authorities Urged to Take Urgent Action

Quetta:Balochistan is witnessing a rapid increase in the spread of the polio virus, with recent reports confirming the presence of the virus in Qilla Saifullah, Barkhan, and Mastung. As a result, the total number of polio cases in the province has now reached 29. According to a report released by the National Institute of Health, the presence of the wild polio virus in sewage samples has raised significant concerns, posing a growing threat to children across the region.

At present, Balochistan is the leading region globally with the highest number of polio cases, with 26 reported cases, creating severe challenges for the healthcare sector. This alarming rise in cases has highlighted the urgent need for stronger intervention and better management of polio eradication efforts in the province.

In light of these developments, the ongoing polio vaccination campaign in Balochistan has faced delays. Following a boycott call from the Grand Health Alliance, the campaign was temporarily suspended for one day. However, it is now scheduled to resume on Tuesday, December 17, and will continue for a duration of seven days.

Reports indicate that several bogus entries have been made during the polio vaccination campaign in the province, revealing serious flaws in the polio management strategy. Despite the concerns, no immediate action has been taken against the Emergency Polio Cell and other responsible agencies to address the issue of virus transmission.

Health officials have called on the public to actively participate in the ongoing polio vaccination campaign to ensure the eradication of this dangerous disease and safeguard the health of children in the region. Immediate action is crucial to prevent further spread of the virus and protect future generations from the debilitating effects of polio.