Pakistan’s National Emergency Operations Center (Neoc) has confirmed the detection of poliovirus in 22 environmental tests collected from different parts of the country despite the recent progress in vaccination efforts,

According to Neoc, 56 environmental samples were collected from 44 districts, 22 of which tested positively for the virus. Officials acknowledged that the presence of the virus remains a challenge, but credited recent immunization campaigns with significant reduction of transmission.

The second national polioimmunization drive of 2025 was performed from April 21 to 27, vaccinating more than 45.3 million children under five. The health authorities reported strong coverage nationwide and stated that all provinces and regions met or exceeded their goals.

Neoc said “back-to-back immunization campaigns in February and April” were the key to the recent decline in virus circulation. However, it emphasized that “continued vigilance is critical of stopping further spread.”

The third nationwide campaign is scheduled for next month. Neoc urged parents to fully cooperate with health workers and ensure that all eligible children get the vaccine. It also reiterated that repeated doses of the oral polio vaccine are “safe and necessary to build prolonged immunity.”