Eighth polio case of 2026 reported in KP

Islamabad has reported its eighth polio case of 2026, stirring worries over the ongoing presence of the debilitating virus despite eradication initiatives. The newest infection was identified in Khyber district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). As of now, eight polio cases have been documented this year, six in KP and two in Sindh, according to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).

The case arrives as authorities gear up to roll out a nationwide sub-national anti-polio campaign from November 2 to 8 across 97 districts, aiming to safeguard over 24 million children under five. The initiative seeks to bolster immunity in vulnerable children and halt further spread of the highly infectious virus. NEOC emphasizes that, although polio has no cure, it can be entirely prevented by vaccination.

They urge parents and caregivers to ensure children are vaccinated during each campaign and complete routine immunization schedules promptly.

The authorities also call upon community leaders, religious scholars, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to aid vaccination teams and help overcome obstacles to immunization. With eight cases already reported this year, health authorities must address the continuous challenge of reaching every child, particularly in regions where repeated vaccination campaigns are crucial to curbing the virus's spread.