KARACHI: A day after a six-month-old child tested positive for poliovirus in Karachi’s district East, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Tuesday directed the health department to conduct a comprehensive investigation, identify the source of the virus and take immediate measures to prevent its further spread.

Chairing an emergency meeting here, the chief minister expressed concern over the detection of the case despite sustained government efforts to eradicate the disease.

He directed the health secretary and relevant authorities to investigate all aspects of the case to establish how the infection occurred.

He ordered immediate case-response measures in the affected area, including comprehensive sweeping, and stressed strict adherence to established polio eradication protocols.

The chief minister directed the officials to take effective steps to contain the virus and prevent further transmission, emphasising that a detailed report must be submitted to the government forthwith.

The meeting was attended by Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah and Health Secretary Tahir Sangi.

Published in Dawn, October 21st, 2026