#EndMalnutritionEndPolio

Breaking the Cycle: Malnutrition and Polio

Discover the critical connection between malnutrition and polio in Pakistan, and how addressing malnutrition can strengthen immunity, save lives, and accelerate the fight against polio.

The Hidden Connection

Malnutrition and polio are intertwined public health crises in Pakistan, creating a vicious cycle that disproportionately impacts vulnerable children. Malnutrition weakens immune systems, reducing vaccine efficacy and leaving children exposed to the poliovirus. Meanwhile, polio exacerbates malnutrition by impairing digestion and access to nutritious food, further endangering children’s health.

In 2024, Pakistan reported 48 cases of polio, a sharp increase from 6 in 2023. Alarmingly, 12 of these children were fully vaccinated but still contracted polio. The underlying cause? Malnutrition, which hindered their ability to build effective immunity.

Why Address Both Together?

  1. Malnutrition Weakens Immunity
    Malnourished children are more susceptible to infections and require additional vaccine doses to build immunity.

  2. Polio Worsens Malnutrition
    Polio-induced paralysis hinders swallowing and digestion, perpetuating nutritional deficiencies.

  3. Shared Root Causes
    Poverty, inadequate sanitation, and lack of clean water fuel both crises, creating barriers to sustainable solutions.

  4. Impact on Growth and Development
    Malnutrition stunts physical and cognitive development, increasing vulnerability to polio’s debilitating effects.

  5. Barriers to Eradication
    Prolonged virus shedding in malnourished children heightens community transmission risks, complicating eradication efforts.

Pakistan’s Dual Crisis

As one of only two countries where polio remains endemic, Pakistan faces a dual challenge. Over 40% of children under five suffer from malnutrition, a staggering statistic that highlights the urgency of integrated solutions.

The Way Forward

Addressing malnutrition alongside vaccination campaigns is critical to breaking this cycle. By providing therapeutic food, improving sanitation, and integrating nutrition programs with polio eradication efforts, we can achieve a twofold victory: saving lives from malnutrition and building the immunity needed to defeat polio.

Learn More & Get Involved

Rotary Clubs and global changemakers have an unprecedented opportunity to create lasting impact by supporting initiatives that tackle these interconnected crises. Join us in transforming lives and accelerating progress toward a healthier, polio-free future.