
Mon Sep 01 13:22:25 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Pakistan continues to struggle with polio eradication. Another case was reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, bringing the national total to 24 for the year. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the hardest-hit region with 16 cases. The government is launching a new immunization campaign focusing on the southern region of the province where resistance to vaccination is highest. Despite global efforts, Pakistan remains one of the last two countries where polio is endemic, facing challenges like security concerns and vaccine hesitancy.
**News Article:**
**Polio Cases Rise in Pakistan, Sparking Renewed Immunization Efforts**
*Peshawar, Pakistan – September 1, 2025* – A new case of polio has been confirmed in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, pushing the nation’s total to 24 for the year. The National Institute of Health (NIH) reported that the latest victim is a 20-month-old child from the Tank district, marking the 16th case in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In response to the rising number of cases, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched an intensive polio immunization campaign, specifically targeting the southern region of the province. This area is known for facing significant resistance to vaccination efforts.
The NIH has developed a “comprehensive strategic roadmap” to combat polio in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The plan aims to address challenges and implement tailored interventions.
A three-day immunization drive is scheduled from September 15-18, focusing on Bannu, Bajaur, and seven districts within the Dera Ismail Khan division. Immunization teams are urging parents to cooperate and ensure their children complete the necessary polio vaccinations.
Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only remaining countries where polio remains endemic. Global eradication efforts have been hampered by security issues, vaccine hesitancy, and the spread of misinformation.
Despite these obstacles, Pakistani health officials remain committed to eradicating polio and are intensifying their efforts to reach all children with the life-saving vaccine.