In a concerning development, Pakistan has reported its first polio case of the year 2024.
The affected individual is a two-and-a-half-year-old child hailing from the Dera Bugti district of Balochistan, stirring renewed efforts in the region to combat the resurgence of poliovirus.
According to reports from the National Institute of Health (NIH), this unfortunate incident marks the reappearance of polio in the Dera Bugti district after a prolonged hiatus of 13 years.
The emergence of the polio case came to light following medical examinations conducted on February 22, where the child exhibited symptoms of fever and weakness.
Subsequent tests conducted by the NIH confirmed the presence of poliovirus type 1 in the affected child, raising concerns about potential transmission within the community.
Health officials have swiftly mobilized response efforts, initiating vaccination campaigns and heightened surveillance measures to contain the spread of the virus.
Despite significant strides in the global fight against polio, Pakistan continues to grapple with sporadic outbreaks, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare services.
