Islamabad, October 27, 2024 – In a renewed drive against polio, Pakistan will launch a nationwide polio vaccination campaign starting Monday, October 28, 2024, with the aim of protecting over 45 million children under the age of five.
This week-long initiative, part of the Pakistan Polio Programme, reflects the government’s intensified commitment to eradicating the disease as it confronts a resurgence of wild poliovirus across the country.
The nationwide campaign, running until November 3, seeks to inoculate every child against the life-altering effects of polio, a disease that remains a serious public health challenge. Additionally, Vitamin A supplements will be administered alongside the vaccine to boost children’s immunity. Health officials urge all parents and caregivers to ensure their children participate in this critical initiative, which aims to curb the spread of the virus as it now affects 71 districts nationwide.
Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, underscored the government’s unwavering determination to eradicate polio under the Prime Minister’s directive. “With a renewed focus on combating polio, our vaccination teams will be reaching every corner of Pakistan,” she stated. “The risk is real with the virus present in numerous districts, and it is crucial for parents to take the necessary step of vaccinating their children.” She emphasized the importance of community support, urging parents to welcome polio workers into their homes to secure a healthier future for the next generation.
The third nationwide campaign of 2024 comes as Pakistan grapples with 41 reported cases of polio this year alone, a stark reminder of the virus’s persistence. Muhammad Anwar-ul-Haq, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the vaccine’s critical role. “Polio has no cure, but it is preventable through this readily available vaccine. The threat is higher than ever, and as a nation, we must rally together to protect our children,” he said.
To facilitate smooth operations throughout the campaign, the Sehat Tahhafuz Helpline at 1166 and the 24/7 WhatsApp Helpline at 0346-7776546 will be available to assist parents with information and to report any children missed during the vaccination drive. These resources aim to ensure comprehensive coverage and eliminate gaps in the nationwide effort.
As Pakistan intensifies its focus on polio eradication, this campaign serves as a vital step toward safeguarding millions of young lives. The government’s resolve, combined with public cooperation, may bring Pakistan closer to achieving a polio-free future.