Poliovirus found in environmental samples
- By Web Desk -
- Mar 01, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Health on Friday confirmed the presence of poliovirus in environmental samples from Peshawar and Karachi, ARY News reported.
According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Health, the virus was found in samples from Malir Karachi and Peshawar.
The health ministry said that the virus is moving from one place to another and its is threatening to children.
On February 26, a week-long nationwide anti-polio drive began in the country to administer vaccine drops to children under five years of age.
Pakistan aims to vaccinate over 45.8 million children below the age of five during the second anti-polio campaign of this year.
Related: Pakistan kicks off week-long anti-polio campaign
According to details, polio workers will visit door to door to vaccinate anti-polio drops to children below the age of five.
Children will also be given Vitamin A supplements to boost their immunity.
Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Center Dr. Shahzad Baig talking to a Private news channel emphasized the program’s commitment to reaching all children with vaccination and health services.
“Our primary focus is the welfare of every child, and we are dedicated to leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to eradicate this disease,” he affirmed.
In thirty-three districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the anti-polio drive will be conducted from the 3rd to the 9th of March.
During the anti-polio campaign, the children of the families arriving by road transport at the entrance points will also be administered the polio vaccine to combat potential transmission.