Pakistan confirms fifth polio case of 2026

ISLAMABAD, Sep 29 (APP): The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication, Islamabad, has confirmed the fifth polio case of 2026 for Pakistan.

According to official sources, the case was reported in Bannu District, Bannu Division, in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

Four of this year’s five cases have been detected in the Bannu Division, three of them in Bannu District.

The affected child is a 17-month-old girl from Khandar Khankhel Union Council in Tehsil Domel of Bannu District.

Due to polio vaccines, which are safe and effective, Pakistan has reduced polio cases by 99.8 percent, from an estimated 20,000 cases in the early 1990s to 31 in 2025, and 5 so far this year.

While overall poliovirus transmission in the country has declined since 2025, transmission remains persistent in southern KP.

This new case underscores the urgent need to maintain strong surveillance and vaccination efforts nationwide, because no child will be safe from polio until every child is vaccinated and safe.

Polio is a highly contagious and incurable disease that can cause lifelong paralysis and, in some cases, death.

 It can, however, be prevented through safe and effective polio vaccines, which have been used safely in 195 countries, including all Muslim-majority countries.

In 2026, Pakistan has already implemented four large-scale polio campaigns, protecting more than 45 million children multiple times, alongside smaller targeted oral and injectable vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas.

Last week, a subnational campaign protected over 28 million children across the country, but continued virus detections continue to pose a risk to children.

Polio eradication is a collective responsibility. Pakistan’s dedicated frontline workers continue to bring vaccines to children at their doorsteps, while parents and caregivers play a crucial role by ensuring their children receive all recommended doses, including routine immunizations.

Communities, religious leaders, and the media also have a vital role to play in promoting vaccination, countering misinformation, and ensuring every child is reached.

Collective efforts can achieve a polio-free future for every family and help build a healthier, stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.