Sindh Reports Major Breakthrough in Fight Against Poliovirus

Islamabad: (Web Desk) – Significant progress has been made in Sindh’s fight against poliovirus, with 28 of 29 environmental samples testing negative, marking the highest number of negative samples recorded since August 2023, according to a report aired by private news channel on Sunday.

The report highlighted a sharp decline in poliovirus circulation across the province, particularly in Karachi Division, where 11 of 12 environmental samples returned negative results for the first time. Meanwhile, all 17 environmental samples collected from other divisions of Sindh also tested negative, another encouraging milestone in the province’s anti-polio drive.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal welcomed the progress, saying the results reflect the positive impact of the government’s anti-polio strategy. He noted that the elimination of poliovirus circulation in Qambar and Kashmore after a prolonged period was a significant achievement.

The minister also described consecutive months of negative environmental samples in Badin and Mirpurkhas as a major success, adding that comprehensive efforts are continuing in collaboration with all stakeholders to eradicate the virus completely.

Mustafa Kamal said two successful nationwide anti-polio campaigns had already been conducted in 2026, while a special anti-polio campaign will be launched in Karachi in July to further strengthen immunization efforts.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the minister said Pakistan remains determined to achieve a polio-free future, stressing that protecting every child from the crippling disease is the government’s top priority.