Islamabad, April 21, 2025: A nationwide anti-polio vaccination campaign began across Pakistan on Monday, aiming to immunize more than 45 million children under the age of five in a week-long effort to eradicate the disease.
The second national campaign of the year, running from April 21 to 27, involves over 400,000 trained health workers who will go door-to-door to administer polio drops. The campaign spans all provinces, with authorities emphasizing its critical importance in eliminating the virus from the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally inaugurated the drive on Sunday in Lahore by administering polio drops to children, reiterating the government’s commitment to a polio-free Pakistan.
In Karachi, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah launched the campaign at CM House, where he underscored the urgency of vaccination efforts. “Polio has no cure—only prevention through vaccination can protect our children from permanent disability,” he said. The campaign in Karachi targets 2.76 million children, supported by the deployment of over 5,000 security personnel to safeguard polio teams.
In Balochistan, the campaign targets approximately 2.66 million children, with around 11,000 medical teams taking part. However, in North Waziristan, the campaign was temporarily delayed due to curfew and will commence on April 22. District Health Officer Dr. Kaleem Ullah confirmed that security and logistical preparations have been finalized for the revised start date.
The National Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) urged parents across the country to cooperate with vaccination teams, stating, “Each additional dose strengthens a child’s immunity and moves us closer to a polio-free Pakistan.” The EOC also noted a significant decline in the presence of poliovirus due to sustained national efforts.
This campaign represents another crucial step in Pakistan’s ongoing battle against polio, reaffirming the country’s resolve to protect the health and future of its youngest citizens.
