Punjab reports sharp decline in poliovirus circulation

LAHORE: Punjab has recorded significant progress in reducing poliovirus circulation across the province, but health authorities have cautioned that the threat has not been fully eliminated and sustained vigilance remains essential during the ongoing high transmission season. Speaking at a media workshop organized by the Punjab Emergency Operations Centre, Chief Minister’s Focal Person for Polio, Uzma Kardar, said the high transmission season for poliovirus has begun and will continue until October. She noted that current weather conditions are highly favourable for virus transmission, warning that despite strong progress, “Complacency cannot be afforded until Pakistan achieves polio-free certification. ” Kardar said extensive vaccination campaigns conducted ahead of the high transmission season have helped reduce the environmental sample positivity rate in Punjab to just 2 percent, compared to 26 percent at the end of 2025. According to official data, out of 200 environmental samples collected in 2026, only four tested positive for poliovirus, while all samples collected in May were negative, indicating improved containment of the virus. She stressed, however, that gains remain fragile as long as the virus continues to exist elsewhere in the country. “Punjab is registering important successes, but these are temporary until complete eradication is achieved, ” she said. Kardar also highlighted population movement as a continuing risk factor for reintroduction and spread of poliovirus, underscoring the need for sustained immunization and surveillance efforts. She informed participants that Punjab has already conducted two National Immunization Days and one special campaign in 2026, achieving around 99 percent coverage of eligible children across all rounds. The remaining campaign schedule has been finalized, including a potential targeted drive in selected districts in July, followed by nationwide vaccination campaigns planned for October and December. Appealing to parents, she urged full cooperation with polio teams and stressed the importance of repeated vaccination. “Every child remains at risk as long as the virus exists anywhere. Immunization must continue in every campaign, ” she said. She also called on parents to reject misinformation and rely only on credible sources regarding vaccines. Kardar credited the progress to the leadership of the Punjab chief minister, the health ministry, development partners, and frontline polio workers, whom she described as “heroes protecting children from lifelong disability. ” The media workshop aimed to strengthen coordination with journalists and media organizations in order to enhance public awareness, improve vaccine acceptance, and sustain focus on polio eradication efforts until the virus is fully eliminated. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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