The government today initiated a nationwide polio vaccination campaign targeting over 45 million children across Pakistan.
The Pakistan Polio Programme spearheads this effort to control the wild poliovirus and protect children from its harmful effects.
From October 28 to November 3, the campaign will focus on children under five, administering polio vaccines and Vitamin A supplements to boost immunity.
Health officials are urging parents and caregivers nationwide to ensure all eligible children are vaccinated.
This is the third national campaign this year, launched in response to an alarming increase in polio cases—41 so far across 71 districts in 2024.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, stressed the government’s commitment “From October 28, our workers will reach every corner of Pakistan, ensuring a healthier future for our children.” She also urged parents, “The virus now affects 71 districts. The government is delivering this vaccine to your doorstep.”
Muhammad Anwarul Haq, coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, also called for parental support. “There is no cure for polio, but it is preventable with vaccination. We must unite to protect our children,” he declared.
During the campaign, parents can seek help or report missed children via the Sehat Tahafuz Helpline 1166 and a 24/7 WhatsApp Helpline at 0346-7776546.
In Sindh, the drive targets immunizing 10.6 million children in 30 districts, with 9.5 million also receiving Vitamin A capsules. The campaign started early in Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, and Tharparkar.
The campaign is a major operation, with 81,000 polio workers going door-to-door and 19,000 security personnel for protection.
The EOC Sindh coordinator has appealed for parental cooperation to avert lifelong disabilities from polio.
This year, Sindh reported 12 polio cases, four in Karachi and the remainder spread across various districts.
