​The National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed two new polio cases in Sindh, with infections reported in the districts of Badin and Thatta. These new cases bring the total number of polio cases in Pakistan to 29 for the year and the count in Sindh province to nine. This development follows closely on the heels of a case reported in Hyderabad just few days earlier.

​The two latest patients are young children. The provincial breakdown of polio cases for 2025 is as follows: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 18 cases, Sindh with 9, and one case each in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan.

​Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only two countries where the polio virus remains endemic. Efforts to eradicate the virus are consistently hampered by security issues, vaccine refusal, and misinformation.

​According to NIH data, a recent polio sub-national campaign was conducted this month across 88 districts, successfully administering drops to 21 million children under the age of five.

​The next nationwide polio campaign is scheduled from October 13 to 19. During this campaign, 45.4 million children will receive polio drops. In addition to the polio vaccine, children will also be given Vitamin A to boost their immunity against diseases. Over 400,000 workers will go door-to-door to deliver the vaccines.

​Polio is a dangerous and incurable disease that can lead to lifelong paralysis. The only way to prevent it is to ensure that every child under the age of five receives repeated doses of the polio vaccine along with other necessary immunizations on time. Parents and guardians are urged to ensure their children get all recommended doses.

​In 2024, Pakistan reported 71 polio cases and the virus was present in nearly 90 districts across the country.