THE dispute between the centre and Punjab over the detection of polio cases in Mandi Bahauddin is unnecessary and dangerous. While Punjab officials argue that the child in question does not meet the clinical criteria for polio, the National Institute of Health has confirmed the presence of the virus in her stool sample. At a time when Pakistan remains one of two countries still battling the disease, such discord hampers progress. The controversy surrounding the case in question highlights complacency. When health authorities contest scientifically confirmed diagnoses and present videos of children running about as ‘evidence’ against polio’s presence, they misunderstand the nature of the disease. Mild cases, where children retain some mobility, are actually indicators of progress in immunisation efforts — not proof that diagnoses are incorrect. Detection of such cases represents a success of our surveillance system, not a failure of our vaccination drives. As the NIH epidemiologist rightly noted, “What may seem like bad news today is actually good news for tomorrow.” This scientific approach must prevail over political considerations and provincial pride.

The path to eradication requires accepting hard facts. Each confirmed case — whether in Punjab, Sindh, or elsewhere — demands immediate response, not denial. Our surveillance systems must remain vigilant enough to detect even atypical presentations, especially as we approach the endgame of eradication. Moving forward, both federal and provincial authorities must prioritise unity over division. The centre should ensure transparent communication of test results and diagnostic criteria, while provinces must accept scientific findings without defensiveness. Joint training of healthcare workers on recognising varying presentations of polio will boost our detection capabilities. Pakistan’s children deserve protection from a preventable disease that continues to threaten their futures. This requires putting aside jurisdictional disputes and embracing collaborative action. Only through acknowledging every case — mild or severe — can we develop targeted strategies to finally put polio behind us.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2025