RASC News Agency: There have been a total of 12 children worldwide paralyzed by the poliovirus this year. Exclusively reported in Pakistan and Afghanistan, each country has documented six cases. This underscores the persistent prevalence of polio in these nations, with an increasing number of reported cases. Expressing concern, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights inadequate vaccination programs in numerous countries, leaving a significant number of children vulnerable to the disease. The lack of vaccination coverage contributes to the proliferation of polio and the vulnerability of individuals to contracting the virus.
Moreover, the WHO emphasizes that Pakistan’s efforts to repatriate Afghanistani refugees elevate the risk of the polio virus crossing borders and affecting both nations. The statement notes that political instability, insecurity in specific areas, and a vaccination ban in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province impede polio eradication efforts in Pakistan. It is crucial to note that the majority of polio cases in the current year have been reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bordering Afghanistan. Additionally, two cases have surfaced in Karachi, a major Pakistani city, involving children from Afghanistani immigrant families. Conversely, Afghanistan has not reported any new cases since August, successfully containing the virus in the Nangarhar province bordering Pakistan.
Despite endeavors to enhance vaccination campaigns in the eastern regions of Afghanistan, it remains imperative to recognize that polio persists as an incurable disease in Pakistan and Afghanistan. A comprehensive approach to vaccination programs and cross-border cooperation is paramount to achieving polio eradication in these nations.
