DHAKA: Pakistan will set up mandatory polio immunisation points at its international airports in response to recommendations by the World Health Organisation.

Pakistan health ministry said on Tuesday, reports The Straits Times.

The WHO warned on Monday that the crippling disease has re-emerged as a public health emergency, with the virus currently affecting 10 countries worldwide and endemic in three including Pakistan.

‘Special measures will include establishing mandatory immunisation counters on all airports, border crossings and seaports for all travellers,’ said ministry spokesman Sajid Ali Shah.

The WHO had called on Pakistan, Cameroon and Syria, seen as posing the greatest risk of exporting wild poliovirus, to ensure all residents and long-term visitors receive a polio vaccine between four weeks and a year before travelling abroad.

BDST: 1654 HRS, MAY 06, 2014