ISLAMABAD, Mar 25 (NNN-APP) – Poliovirus was detected in sewage samples from 18 districts across Pakistan, according to test results from the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication, at the National Institute of Health.
The report shown on the website of the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, revealed yesterday that, the samples, collected between Feb 21 and Mar 6, confirmed the presence of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in the area, highlighting the ongoing threat of the disease.
The statement added that, Pakistan’s polio surveillance system network expanded from 65 sites in 2021, to 127 this year, with the aim to ensure that poliovirus transmission does not go undetected, even in the most remote areas.
The statement added that, the National Polio Eradication Programme, had been implementing a rigorous vaccination strategy, aimed at eliminating the virus and brought a consistent decline in polio cases since Sept, last year.
Pakistan reported six new cases since the start of the year, according to the programme.
The programme urged all parents to ensure their children receive polio drops at every available opportunity, emphasising that vaccination is the only way to protect them from the debilitating disease.– NNN-APP
