Fourth polio case of the year reported in Bannu

Fourth polio case of the year 2026 was reported in Pakistan, confirmed National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) on Friday, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to NEOC authorities, the new polio case was reported from Bannu District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The affected child is a resident of Union Council Norar, Tehsil Mirian.

Earlier, three out of the four polio cases reported this year also originated from Bannu Division.

Continuous access to children in Bannu Division is hindered by security issues.

Polio teams have been unable to regularly reach children in Union Council Norar since 2025.

Poliovirus circulation persists in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to unvaccinated children.

Overall polio virus transmission in the country has declined, but the risk remains in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

As many as 31 polio cases were reported in Pakistan during 2025.

Nationwide anti-polio campaign to run from September 21 to 27.

Approximately 31 million children will be administered polio drops during the upcoming campaign.

Government urged parents to ensure children receive drops during every anti-polio campaign.

Over 45 million children vaccinated during three major campaigns in Pakistan this year.

Polio is an incurable disease that can cause lifelong disability and, in some cases, death.

Polio vaccine is safe and effective; used in 195 countries worldwide.

No child is safe from polio until every child is vaccinated.

Reporter: Babar Shahzad Turk