The ambitious objective of eradicating wild-type poliovirus type-1 (WPV1) by 2026 faces a formidable challenge. Endemic solely in Pakistan and Afghanistan, WPV1 cases have resurged since 2023, raising alarms within the global health community.
Alarming Rise in Cases:
While the combined WPV1 cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan appeared to decrease in 2023 compared to 2022, the first half of 2024 has witnessed a troubling uptick. With six cases already reported in Afghanistan and five in Pakistan, the total number for the year could surpass 2022 figures.
Environmental Circulation of the Virus:
The concern extends beyond the number of cases in children. The circulation of WPV1 in the environment is escalating, with positive environmental samples increasingly detected in Pakistan, particularly in historical reservoirs like Karachi, Quetta, and the Peshawar-Khyber blocks.
Challenges to Polio Campaigns:
The rising number of positive environmental samples indicates shortcomings in polio vaccination campaigns, including issues like fake finger marking without actual vaccination. Although most children in Pakistani cities are immunized, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children remain vulnerable. In 2023, two out of six cases were reported in Karachi city.
Cross-Border Spread:
The situation in Pakistan appears more dire than in Afghanistan, with WPV1 predominantly detected in Pakistan in 2023 and 2024. The forced displacement of Afghan refugees from Pakistan poses a significant risk of cross-border transmission, particularly to southern Afghanistan, where a large pool of unvaccinated and under-immunized children exists.
Global Implications:
The resurgence of WPV1 in Pakistan and Afghanistan underscores the need for intensified efforts to achieve polio eradication by 2026. Addressing challenges in vaccination campaigns, ensuring adequate coverage, and mitigating cross-border transmission risks are crucial to safeguarding global health.
Key Takeaways:
| Aspect | Significance |
|---|---|
| WPV1 Resurgence | Endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan, cases have increased since 2023. |
| Environmental Samples | Rising positive samples indicate heightened virus circulation. |
| Vaccination Challenges | Fake finger marking and under-vaccination pose ongoing threats. |
| Cross-Border Spread | Displacement of Afghan refugees increases risk of transmission. |
| Global Health Impact | Resurgence emphasizes the urgency of achieving polio eradication by 2026. |
Sunil Garnayak is an expert in Indian news with extensive knowledge of the nation’s political, social, and economic landscape and international relations. With years of experience in journalism, Sunil delivers in-depth analysis and accurate reporting that keeps readers informed about the latest developments in India. His commitment to factual accuracy and nuanced storytelling ensures that his articles provide valuable insights into the country’s most pressing issues.
