WHO extends travel restrictions on Pakistan over polio concerns

Islamabad: The World Health Organization (WHO) has prolonged conditional international travel restrictions on Pakistan for a further three months, due to ongoing concerns about the transmission of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1), according to ARY News, a Pakistani news outlet.

When was the decision made?

This decision was reached during the 42nd meeting of the WHO Emergency Committee for Polio, held virtually on June 18 . The meeting brought together officials from polio-affected countries, focusing on the global spread of WPV1. Pakistan and Afghanistan were highlighted as continued risks for international transmission, according to media reports.

Regions currently harbouring the virus

The WHO voiced particular concern regarding the spread of WPV1 via cross-border movement. Specific regions noted include southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Quetta Block, southern Afghanistan, Karachi, and Peshawar—areas where the virus continues to circulate.

Major reasons for spread

The WHO reportedly linked the spread of the virus to the movement of displaced populations and cross-border travel. An increase in polio-positive sewage samples across Pakistan was also highlighted. High-risk regions include KP, Sindh, Balochistan, and central Pakistan, with Karachi, Peshawar, and the Quetta Block identified as key strongholds of the virus.

New case in Gilgit-Baltistan and vaccination gaps raise alarm

The committee also drew attention to a recently reported polio case in Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, a growing number of children missing vaccinations continues to pose a serious challenge to eradication efforts.

Ambitious eradication target, efforts commended

Acknowledging that the 2025 target for polio eradication is unlikely to be achieved under current conditions, the WHO nevertheless praised Pakistan’s ongoing efforts. The organisation expressed confidence in the quality of Pakistan's vaccination campaigns and noted satisfaction with the country’s progress to date.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister and his team were commended for their dedication to the cause, with provincial and regional campaigns reportedly showing strong results.

Call for continued cooperation with Afghanistan

The WHO urged continued bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan, emphasising the importance of joint vaccination campaigns and robust surveillance systems to halt the virus’s spread.

Mandatory vaccinations for outbound travellers to continue

Polio surveillance in Pakistan will continue over the next three months. During this period, mandatory polio vaccinations for all outbound travellers will remain in force. The WHO plans to reassess the situation and review Pakistan’s progress at the end of this timeframe, as per reports.

ANI