PAKISTAN/GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, US – Public safety concerns are heightened on two fronts: in Pakistan, where the battle against the poliovirus faces setbacks, and in the United States, following a horrific attack on a place of worship.
Pakistan’s Health Challenge: New Polio Cases
The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan confirmed two new poliovirus cases recently, bringing the total reported cases in to 29. This update underscores the persistent challenge of eradication in Pakistan, which remains one of the last two countries in the world where polio is endemic.
To counter the spread, the NIH announced a massive nationwide polio vaccination campaign scheduled for October 13 to 19. The drive aims to protect over million children under the age of five. The institute urges parents to ensure their children receive the necessary doses, as vaccination is the only effective defense against the highly infectious and incurable disease.
Deadly Attack on US Place of Worship
In Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, a gunman attacked the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during an active service. The suspect, a -year-old man, drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church, opened fire on the congregation with an assault rifle, and deliberately set the building ablaze.
The local police chief confirmed the suspect was shot dead by law enforcement officers responding to the scene. Ten gunshot victims were transported to the hospital, including one person who has died from their injuries. Authorities believe “hundreds of people” were inside the church at the time of the attack and expect to find “additional victims” once the fire damage has been fully assessed and the scene secured.
The motive remains unspecified by police. However, former President Donald Trump called the shooting “horrendous” and stated on his Truth Social platform that it “appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America.” The FBI is assisting local law enforcement with the investigation.
