Pakistan’s ongoing battle against polio took a major step forward as 19.7 million children under the age of five were successfully vaccinated during a week-long nationwide campaign conducted from September 1 to 7, according to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
The extensive campaign, launched across all provinces and territories, aimed to boost immunity among children amid growing concerns over the presence of wild poliovirus in environmental samples. The NEOC credited the campaign’s success to the tireless efforts of parents, health workers, security personnel, and local administrations, describing polio teams as the “heroes of the nation.”
Vaccination numbers by region include:
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Sindh: 8.7 million children
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Punjab: Over 4 million children
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): 4 million children
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Balochistan: 2.2 million children
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Islamabad: 479,000 children
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Gilgit-Baltistan: 112,000 children
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Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK): 164,000 children
Polio Virus Still a Threat as Rainy Season Raises Risks
Despite the campaign’s success, health officials remain on high alert. The National Institute of Health (NIH) recently detected the sixth case of wild poliovirus this year in sewage samples from Hyderabad, raising alarm over silent transmission in the population.
Officials from the NEOC cautioned that densely populated urban areas are at greater risk, especially during the ongoing monsoon season, which can increase the spread of waterborne diseases, including polio. Authorities stressed the critical importance of ensuring every child under five receives polio drops, particularly in high-risk zones.
To maintain momentum, a follow-up campaign targeting 1.6 million children will be launched on September 15 in South Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Bajaur, and Upper Dir. These regions are considered vulnerable due to historical resistance, security challenges, and geographical difficulties in accessing healthcare.
Public Urged to Stay Informed and Cooperate with Polio Teams
Parents have been strongly urged to cooperate with vaccination teams and ensure their children receive polio drops during every campaign round. The NEOC has provided resources for public assistance, including:
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Helpline: Dial 1166
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WhatsApp: Send a message to 0346-7776546
The campaign is a part of Pakistan’s broader Polio Eradication Programme, managed by the EOC under the Ministry of National Health Services, and supported by WHO, UNICEF, and other global health partners.
While Pakistan has made significant strides in reducing polio cases, experts warn that continued vigilance, community cooperation, and regular immunization are essential to achieving a polio-free future.
