THIS is with reference to the report “Pakistan’s tally reaches 40 on the eve of Polio Day” (Oct 24). The resurgence of the virus is rather worrying. Balochistan alone has reported 20 cases this year, followed by Sindh with 12 reported cases, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) six, and Punjab and Islamabad with one case each.

The challenge of polio eradication in Pakistan is compounded by a variety of issues. Hardline clerics spread misinfo-rmation, claiming that the vaccine is a part of some Western conspiracy. The situation is exacerbated in areas where illiteracy rates remain high. Security concerns also pose a significant barrier. Polio vaccinators, along with their security personnel, are frequently targeted by militants.

Displacement, both internal as well as cross-border, has hindered elimination of polio in provinces, like KP, that host a large number of Afghan refugees. The 2022 floods that displaced millions in Sindh and Balochistan further complicated vaccination efforts.

The continuous movement of popula-tions, particularly from regions hit by conflict or calamity, leaves children vulnerable to the disease.

Finally, socioeconomic disparities between the provinces also play a role in the resurgence of polio. With one case each in Punjab and Islamabad compared to 20 in Balochistan, this element cannot be denied.

This disparity underscores the impor-tance of addressing regional inequalities in terms of access to healthcare if Pakistan is to eliminate polio. The failure to address these issues could jeopardise Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts.

Ali Gul Leghari
Johi

Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2024