The World Health Organization (WHO) has extended international travel restrictions on Pakistan for another three months due to continued poliovirus transmission. The decision reflects ongoing concerns about the virus’s spread and its potential impact on global public health.
According to reports, the WHO expressed serious concern over persistent poliovirus transmission in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. The organization stated that the situation continues to pose a risk beyond national borders and requires sustained efforts to contain the disease.
Cross-Border Movement Raises Transmission Risks
The WHO identified frequent cross-border movement between Pakistan and Afghanistan as a major factor contributing to the spread of poliovirus. As a result, health authorities remain focused on monitoring and controlling transmission in high-risk regions.
The organization reported that poliovirus continues to spread from Afghanistan into southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Quetta block. At the same time, active transmission remains present in southern KP and Karachi, highlighting ongoing challenges for eradication efforts.
Vaccination Challenges Remain a Concern
Furthermore, the WHO described Karachi as a key centre for continued poliovirus transmission. It stressed the importance of targeted vaccination campaigns in Central Pakistan, southern KP and the Quetta block to reduce the spread of the virus.
The organization also expressed concern about the large number of children who continue to miss polio vaccinations. In addition, vaccine refusals remain a significant obstacle to the country’s eradication campaign.
According to the WHO communiqué, security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have prevented up to 250,000 children from receiving polio vaccines. Consequently, Pakistan will remain subject to conditional international travel measures for at least another three months while authorities continue efforts to eliminate poliovirus transmission and protect public health across affected regions.
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