Pakistan launches seven-day polio immunization drive to safeguard children

Seven-day polio immunization drive to protect children across Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Starting April 21, 2025, the government is launching a seven-day polio immunization campaign. The drive, directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, will focus on vaccinating children under five across the country to prevent the debilitating disease. With over 45 million children set to benefit, this initiative represents a major step toward a polio-free Pakistan.

The government’s commitment to eradicate polio

Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal emphasized the critical role of this campaign, underlining the government’s unwavering commitment to the eradication of polio. He stated:

“We are resolute in our fight against polio, and this campaign is a crucial step toward ensuring a polio-free Pakistan for future generations.”

Health workers will be deployed across the country to ensure that every eligible child receives their dose of the vaccine.

Repeated immunization for maximum protection

Children under the age of five need to be vaccinated repeatedly to provide them with maximum protection against the virus. The polio drops will be administered by healthcare workers to ensure that no child is left behind in the fight against polio. Minister Kamal stressed the importance of complete immunization during every campaign to safeguard against the virus and other life-threatening diseases.

Urging parents to take proactive action

Health authorities are urging parents to prioritize their children's health by bringing them to vaccination centers during every polio campaign. “By ensuring that children receive their necessary doses of the vaccine, parents can help protect their children’s futures and safeguard them against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases,” Minister Kamal added.

Polio’s devastating impact and the need for action

Polio remains a major threat to children under five, causing paralysis or even death. Repeated immunization efforts have successfully protected millions of children worldwide, and Pakistan is determined to follow suit. The government is calling on community leaders, healthcare workers, and parents to work together in ensuring that every child is vaccinated.

The role of stakeholders in polio eradication

The Minister also called upon various stakeholders—community leaders, healthcare workers, and parents—to unite in the fight against polio. Through collective efforts, the country can effectively combat the challenges posed by polio and pave the way toward a healthier future for its children.

Aiming for a polio-free future

Pakistan’s goal is to join the list of polio-free countries, and with the concerted efforts of the government and the community, this goal is within reach. The current immunization drive will protect millions of children from the debilitating effects of polio, bringing the nation closer to eradicating the disease once and for all.