Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination convened in Islamabad’s Old PIPS Hall, Parliament Lodges, to deliberate on the nation’s readiness and ongoing health challenges, including the mpox outbreak and a significant resurgence of polio. The committee also highlighted the persistent issue of tuberculosis in the country and the need for increased domestic focus and resources.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee, chaired by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani, MNA, received comprehensive briefings from the Ministry on several urgent public health concerns. The Ministry detailed their enhanced surveillance measures at airports and border checkpoints to prevent the spread of mpox, reassured by the classification of the outbreak as a public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The discussion extended to the alarming increase in polio cases, particularly in districts bordering Afghanistan. The Ministry presented data showing a rise in environmental samples testing positive for the virus from 1% in 2023 to 25% in 2024, indicating a significant risk of transmission. The number of districts affected by polio surged from 14 in 2023 to 67 in 2024, with the Committee pinpointing gaps in routine immunization coverage as a major contributing factor. Efforts to eradicate polio face continued challenges, especially in South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Quetta, and Karachi.

Furthermore, the committee addressed the issue of tuberculosis (TB), with Pakistan reporting approximately 600,000 new cases annually. Despite the critical health impact, there has been a lack of significant domestic funding or consistent political commitment to combat TB. The Parliamentary Caucus on TB was recognized for its essential role in keeping the focus on TB prevention and treatment amidst changing political dynamics.

The meeting emphasized the need for provincial governments to prioritize TB through advocacy by Committee members, ensuring the disease receives the necessary attention and resources at the regional level.

The session was attended by numerous MNAs and health officials, including Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, reflecting a unified approach to tackle these pressing health issues.