The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued a concerning report confirming the presence of the poliovirus in environmental samples from 52 districts nationwide.
The latest findings have identified poliovirus in 10 environmental samples collected from seven additional cities, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This recent discovery highlights the persistent threat of polio in various parts of the country.
Polio virus has been confirmed in environmental samples taken from the vegetable market sewage in Islamabad on July 3.
Genetic analysis indicates that the poliovirus detected in Rawalpindi’s Safdarabad area is similar to the strain found in Islamabad.
Environmental samples from Loralai have also tested positive for the poliovirus.
In Karachi, the virus was found in samples from Hijrat Colony, Haji Murid Goth, and Khamisu Goth.
Dadu has also reported positive environmental samples for the poliovirus.
In Hyderabad, the virus was detected in the sewage water of the Risala line and the pumping station.
The report underscores the widespread presence of the poliovirus, reaffirming the need for vigilant public health measures and comprehensive immunization campaigns.
