Pakistan has reported a sharp drop in polio cases, with four infections recorded so far in 2026. Government data shows cases fell from 74 in 2024 to 31 in 2025.
Health officials also reported an improvement in environmental surveillance results. Positivity rates in samples have dropped below 10%, according to figures presented at a national polio meeting.
Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal chaired the meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on the National Taskforce for Polio Eradication.
The minister also launched the latest nationwide vaccination campaign. He said the government would continue its efforts until poliovirus transmission stops across the country.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Remains Key Focus
Three of Pakistan’s four reported polio cases in 2026 came from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
The figures show that health authorities still face challenges in some parts of the country. Officials say vaccination teams must continue reaching children in areas with a higher risk of transmission.
Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal attended the meeting along with Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq.
Representatives from provincial governments and development partners also took part. Officials from the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Pakistan PolioPlus Committee and Rotary were among the participants.
Government Urges Parents to Vaccinate Children
Ahsan Iqbal described polio eradication as a national responsibility. He urged parents to make sure their eligible children receive every recommended polio vaccine dose.
“When a polio worker knocks on your door, do not ignore that knock,” Iqbal said. “It is the knock of your child’s future.”
The minister also called on religious scholars and community leaders to address misinformation about vaccination. He said public support remains important for the country’s eradication efforts.
Iqbal also condemned attacks and threats against polio workers. He called for stronger protection for frontline teams during vaccination campaigns.
Officials Warn Against Complacency
Mustafa Kamal praised polio workers, provincial governments and field staff for their efforts.
However, he stressed that the fall in cases does not mean the campaign can stop.
Representatives from the World Bank and UNICEF also welcomed the latest figures. UNICEF said the new campaign could help health teams focus on areas that remain at high risk.
The government plans to build on the recent decline while continuing vaccination and environmental surveillance.
Pakistan Pushes Toward Polio-Free Goal
At the end of the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal described the latest results as a positive sign. He said the figures showed the impact of a coordinated government effort.
The minister said vaccination teams must reach every eligible child. He also stressed that no community should remain outside the campaign.
Iqbal assured frontline workers that the government would support them as they carry out their duties.
Pakistan continues to face challenges in eliminating poliovirus. However, the latest figures represent a significant decline in reported cases over the past two years.
