Polio Resurgence in Pakistan and Afghanistan Amid Vaccine Access Challenges

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The fight against polio has taken a worrying turn, with a sharp increase in cases reported in Pakistan, marking a significant setback in global eradication efforts. In 2023, Pakistan was nearing eradication with only six wild poliovirus cases, but this number has surged to 73 in 2024, prompting alarm among health experts.

The ongoing conflict in neighboring Afghanistan is believed to be a major contributor to the rise in polio cases, as well as other infectious diseases. Renowned child immunisation expert Zulfiqar Bhutta noted that all reported wild poliovirus genetic strains in Pakistan originated from Afghanistan. He expressed concern that complacency in eradicating the virus has resulted in a dramatic reversal of progress, stating, "We've snatched defeat from the jaws of victory."

Challenges to immunisation efforts in the region are compounded by obstacles such as the Taliban’s restrictions on female health workers, poor sanitation, and insecurity. There is also a lack of reliable data on poliovirus cases in Afghanistan, hindering combat strategies.

While Pakistan has invested around $10 billion in vaccination initiatives since 2011, vaccination rates vary significantly across provinces. In Punjab, approximately 85% of children are vaccinated, whereas in Balochistan, the rate plummets to just 30%. Bhutta emphasized that consistent vaccination coverage of 85-90% is necessary across all provinces to eradicate polio effectively.

Bhutta calls for a thorough review of immunisation strategies and points out the importance of strengthening routine health programs for various infectious diseases. Additionally, he advocates for collaborative healthcare initiatives with the Taliban, drawing from past successful negotiations to deliver vaccines, such as during smallpox eradication efforts.

The resurgence of polio highlights the urgent need for focused, sustained actions from both international and local health authorities to address this growing health crisis.

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