A bold declaration: we are on the brink of eradicating polio, not just in Pakistan, but worldwide. This is a monumental achievement, and experts from around the globe are in agreement. But here's the catch: it's a delicate balance, and the recent discovery of poliovirus in Germany serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction.
On November 24, 2025, in Islamabad, Pakistan, a gathering of international and national experts, convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Aga Khan University in Karachi, reached a unanimous verdict. Despite challenges, the data is clear: we can end polio. The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative has made remarkable progress, reducing cases by an astonishing 99.6% over three decades. This is a testament to the power of vaccines and their life-saving potential.
Panelists emphasized the urgency of sustained joint efforts. Scaling back now would pose a significant global health risk. The cost of inaction is far greater than the effort required to finish the job.
The event, titled "How close are we? The last mile to polio eradication," brought together over 400 participants, both in-person and online. The panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Ali Faisal Saleem, highlighted the need for continued commitment.
Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative in Pakistan, stressed the importance of eradicating polio for every child. "It's not just the right thing to do; it's the smartest. The recent detection in Germany shows that poliovirus knows no borders, and the future of millions of children hangs in the balance. Science tells us we can do it, and we must not give up now."
State Health Minister of Sindh, Azra Fazal Pechuho, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the global impact. "This is the last mile, and we need everyone's support to reach every child. It's not just Pakistan's issue; it's a global concern."
Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister's Focal Person for Polio Eradication in Pakistan, highlighted the country's progress. "We've reduced the disease burden by 99.6% since 1994, and two wild poliovirus strains have been eradicated. Our sophisticated network of emergency operation centers, driven by data and science, has brought us this far."
Ms. Raza Farooq believes Pakistan is close to the finish line, thanks to ongoing scientific efforts. "Our surveillance network is one of the largest and most sensitive in the world, allowing us to stay ahead of the virus. As long as polio exists anywhere, no one is safe. The recent detection in Germany proves that. It's time to recommit, not quit."
Dr. Jamal Ahmed, WHO Director for Polio Eradication, emphasized the medical data. "Vaccines provide sufficient immunity to stop polio transmission. The question of medical feasibility is no longer a theory; practical evidence from diverse geographies proves it. We've seen success in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The vaccine works."
Dr. Ahmed added, "We need to believe it and mobilize to finish the job in Pakistan, starting here in Karachi. If we do that, the world will be polio-free."
Dr. Mohammed Soghaier, Coordinator of the WHO Pakistan Polio Programme, highlighted the improved technology and tools available. "The science is clear, and we have the means to apply it. India had 700 cases in 2009, but within a year, it had its last polio case. The same happened in Nigeria. One of these viruses will be the last. Polio eradication is good news we can make happen."
Professor Dr. Shahnaz Ibrahim, Head of Paediatric Neurology at the Aga Khan University, agreed that Pakistan is close to becoming polio-free. She urged all stakeholders and the public to intensify efforts, reminding everyone of the "terrifying" public health risk posed by the poliovirus.
"I've run marathons, and the last mile is the toughest. It's when you want to give up, but we must not. I've seen polio cases, and they were terrifying. If you saw what I've seen, you'd know polio is not mild. It's mild now because of our efforts. I'm hopeful we'll reach zero polio. We can do it."
Dr. Christopher Maher, a senior specialist in polio eradication, highlighted the sophistication of the response. "Surveillance systems in Pakistan and Afghanistan are incredibly sensitive, far beyond what we had in the early days. For years, we didn't even know what polio was; we lacked genetic sequencing. The tools we have now are remarkable, and they've changed our perception. We're finding more virus now because we have the means."
Mr. Aziz Memon, Chairman of the National Polio Plus Committee for Rotary International, offered a message of hope. "When we started, there were 130,000 cases, and so many children were dying. Now, we're down to just two countries: Pakistan and Afghanistan. Rotary has been a champion from the beginning, and we won't stop or give up. We'll be here until the work is done. Surveillance is superb, and the virus can't hide. As Nelson Mandela said, it's always impossible until it's done. We'll make the world polio-free."
In his closing remarks, Dr. Karim F. Damji, Dean of Aga Khan University Medical College, called for strengthened partnerships. "The greatest progress in maternal and child health comes from leadership and partnership. When governments, communities, and institutions work together, even the most challenging environments can see rapid, profound change."
Polio eradication is within reach, but it requires persistence, knowledge, humility, empathy, and innovation. Most importantly, it demands a community-engaged model and a continued journey together on this last mile.
