Balochistan Faces Polio Resurgence Amid Fake Vaccination Scandal

Balochistan, once a polio-free province, is witnessing a resurgence of the virus, with 12 new cases reported in the past eight months. This resurgence has brought to light a disturbing practice: some parents, in collusion with polio workers, have been marking their children’s fingers without actually administering the vaccine. The provincial health department has already taken action against over 500 polio workers involved in this malpractice.

The province, which had been polio-free for two years, now finds itself grappling with the resurgence of the virus, as the number of affected children rises. The situation has reached a critical point, with the provincial health department issuing an urgent warning. In response to this alarming trend, Dr. Aftab Kakar, Polio Campaign Technical Officer, announced a special anti-polio campaign set to launch on September 9 across Balochistan.

Balochistan Emergency Operation Center Coordinator Inamul Haque highlighted that migration and parents’ refusal to vaccinate their children were significant challenges in the fight against polio. However, the recent revelation of fake vaccination campaigns has further complicated efforts to eradicate the virus.

Tragically, three children who contracted the virus have died, and health officials warn that the increasing number of cases could lead to more fatalities. The provincial health department is now on high alert, determined to curb the spread of the virus and protect the lives of children across Balochistan.