The number of environmental samples this year that have been tested for wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) has reached 112. This is according to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institutes of Health. Four additional sewage samples were obtained from previously afflicted districts.

The notification stated that one sample from Pishin and three samples taken from various Karachi areas had shown positive results.

The imported YB3A cluster of WPV1 was genetically associated with the samples.

The two human cases this year and all positive samples include the YB3A cluster, which vanished from the nation in 2021 but persisted in circulation in Afghanistan before being reintroduced through cross-border transmission last year, the official stated.

A lab official reported that so far this year, the virus has been detected in sewage samples from 33 different areas.

Speaking at a press conference in Washington, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said that the US is in favor of diplomatic ties between nations and that he had no more comments to make.

When asked if the US State Department also views the protection of PTI leaders as a top priority, Senator Chuck Schumer, the majority leader of the US Senate, had discussed this topic with the Pakistani ambassador during their meeting. Miller responded that he was not aware of any such discussions between the State Department and Senator Schumer.

Miller did, however, stress that the US supports Pakistan’s upholding of the rule of law and human rights and places a high priority on everyone’s safety and security, including political leaders.

Miller responded to the meeting between PTI leaders, including Omar Ayub and other opposition members, and US Ambassador Donald Blome, saying that the discussion covered significant topics including human rights, economic reforms, bilateral relations, and regional security.

He restated that the US does not endorse any particular political party or take a stand on internal political issues in Pakistan. The United States places a high priority on safeguarding human rights and backs democratic principles in Pakistan.

Miller also emphasized US support for a regional agreement while expressing concern over the tensions and instability brought on by Iran’s conduct.

Six people were sent to a neighboring hospital in severe condition, while seven people with lesser injuries received immediate first assistance, according to emergency sources.

An explosion involving a gas cylinder in New Saidabad, Matiari district, earlier claimed the lives of at least four laborers.

The ice plant gas cylinder explosion happened while employees were going about their regular business, according to rescue sources.

Consequently, one person was gravely hurt and taken to the hospital, and three others passed away instantly. The wounded worker subsequently passed away from his injuries as well.

Rescue personnel arrived at the scene shortly after the event and roped off the area. Law enforcement began looking into the incident in the interim.