Pakistani health authorities have reported a significant decrease in polio cases, indicating progress in the nation’s eradication efforts. After recording 74 cases in 2024, only six cases have been identified in the first quarter of 2025. This improvement is attributed to enhanced coordination with provincial bodies and international partners.
Muhammad Anwarul Haq, Coordinator at the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), expressed cautious optimism, stating that while progress has been made, continued efforts are essential to fully eliminating the disease. The government has scheduled multiple nationwide immunization campaigns throughout 2025 to address immunity gaps and bolster protection against the virus.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, acknowledged both the advancements and the challenges that remain. She emphasized the importance of sustained commitment from donors and partners to achieve a polio-free Pakistan.
Despite progress, obstacles such as vaccine misinformation and resistance from certain communities persist. The program continues to face challenges, including misinformation and resistance from conservative clerics who claim immunization is a foreign conspiracy. Additionally, militant violence has targeted polio workers in parts of the country.
