Poliovirus Detected in Environmental Sample in Karachi, Pakistan
Published on: November 4, 2023.
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Polio Virus Detected in Karachi, Pakistan
In a recent statement by the provincial Health Department, it has been confirmed that the polio virus has been found in an environmental sample in Karachi, the capital of Sindh province in south Pakistan. The virus is found to be genetically related to a polio virus cluster originally discovered in Afghanistan.
This discovery is concerning as Pakistan is one of the only two countries in the world where polio is still endemic, according to the World Health Organisation. In an effort to combat the spread of the virus, strict measures have been taken in Karachi to ensure that children receive the necessary polio vaccinations. This includes a special anti-polio vaccination campaign that is currently underway from October 30 to November 3.
During this campaign, 10 million children up to the age of five will be vaccinated on their doorsteps. Health Minister Nadeem Jan has urged parents to cooperate with polio teams to protect their children from permanent disabilities caused by polio.
The detection of the polio virus in Karachi has prompted the government to take emergency measures to eradicate polio. Efforts to eradicate polio have been ongoing throughout the country, with similar cases being found in east Punjab and northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces earlier this year.
It is crucial for Pakistan to continue its efforts in eradicating polio and ensuring that children receive necessary vaccinations. Polio is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. It can lead to permanent paralysis or even death.
To learn more about polio and Pakistan’s efforts to combat the disease, visit the source article on The Sun Daily website.
Source: The Sun Daily
