ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reported its fourth polio case of 2026, with the latest infection detected in Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
The affected child is a resident of Noorarr Union Council in Tehsil Miryan. Three of the four polio cases reported in Pakistan this year have emerged from Bannu Division, highlighting the continuing risk in parts of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Security Challenges Restrict Vaccination Access
NEOC officials said security concerns have made it difficult for vaccination teams to maintain regular access to children in Bannu Division. In Noorarr Union Council, polio teams have reportedly been unable to reach children regularly since 2025.
Officials said the continued presence of unvaccinated children has contributed to the circulation of poliovirus in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Although overall poliovirus transmission has declined across Pakistan, officials said southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains a high-risk area requiring continued vaccination and surveillance efforts.
Nationwide Polio Campaign Set for September
According to the NEOC, Pakistan recorded 31 polio cases during 2025. The next nationwide polio vaccination campaign is scheduled to run from September 21 to 27, targeting approximately 31 million children.
Health authorities have reiterated that the polio vaccine is safe and effective and is used in countries around the world as part of efforts to prevent the disease.
The latest case brings Pakistan’s total number of reported polio cases in 2026 to four.