Polio Strikes Again in Balochistan – Spread Awareness and Save Lives!

Balochistan: Pakistan has just reported the sixth polio case of the year, and it’s from the Killa Abdullah district. This dangerous virus has been found in over 40 districts this year, but never before has it struck so close to home.

According to the National Institute of Health, a 1.5-year-old child from Union Council Gulistan 2 in Killa Abdullah has tested positive for wild poliovirus type-1 (WPV1). This heartbreaking news serves as a reminder that we cannot let our guard down in the fight against polio.

Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, urges everyone to take action. He says, “Let’s strengthen routine vaccination rates and health systems in Balochistan, but we cannot do it alone – we need the support of parents and communities.”

Sadly, this is the fifth case in Balochistan this year. Muhammad Anwarul Haq, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, emphasizes that repeated vaccinations are crucial in keeping children safe from this deadly disease. However, the recent insecurity and localized protests in Balochistan have made it challenging to conduct full campaigns and protect every child.

But fear not, as the Polio Programme is working tirelessly with the Health Ministry and law-enforcement agencies to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated. Let’s all do our part and spread awareness to save precious lives. We cannot let polio win – let’s join forces and eradicate it once and for all!”