Islamabad: Global health experts gathered in Islamabad last week to address the rising transmission of wild poliovirus in Pakistan and Afghanistan, aiming to implement emergency measures to reverse the trend. The meeting marked a critical juncture in the fight against polio, with Pakistan reporting a significant increase in cases and environmental detections throughout 2024.
According to a statement by Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meeting was convened by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy. The discussion highlighted the urgent need for extraordinary efforts to reinvigorate the eradication program and restore confidence among national and international stakeholders.
The experts emphasized the importance of reaching children in high-risk areas, particularly those in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, central Pakistan, and urban centers. Security and logistical challenges have hindered vaccination campaigns, necessitating new approaches to ensure every child is reached.
Specific milestones were outlined to interrupt poliovirus transmission by mid-2025, including reducing the virus presence in environmental samples and preventing further outbreaks. The next six months are deemed crucial for making progress.
Improving the quality of vaccination campaigns emerged as a priority, with a focus on reaching children who continue to be missed. The implementation of Pakistan’s “2-4-6 strategy” aims to strengthen program management and improve access to children in insecure areas.
Opportunities for progress exist, with political and administrative leadership committed to the cause. The collaboration between Pakistan and Afghanistan is essential, given the interdependence in eradicating polio. A review scheduled for June 2025 will assess the program’s progress and the need for any course corrections.
The TAG meeting underscored the collective resolve to overcome challenges and ensure no child is left unvaccinated, moving closer to a polio-free future.