Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal revealed that more than 44,000 parents across Pakistan have declined to allow polio vaccination for their children, with Karachi recording the highest number of refusals.
Speaking at a media briefing in Karachi, Kamal stated that 34,000 of these refusals were reported from the city alone. Notably, Karachi’s Eastern District accounted for 27,000 of the total refusals, raising serious concerns ahead of the upcoming national campaign.
The minister announced that a nationwide polio vaccination drive will begin on April 21 and urged the public to actively support this initiative for the greater good of the country.
“There is a legal route involving arrests and cases for non-cooperation, but I prefer to rely on public awareness rather than punitive action,” he said.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Kamal pointed out that Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only two countries in the world where polio remains endemic. He warned that refusing to participate in eradication efforts could be seen as an act against the nation.
The large number of refusals—especially in urban centers like Karachi—poses a serious obstacle to Pakistan’s efforts to eliminate the crippling disease. The government aims to use the upcoming campaign to reach unvaccinated children and advance toward achieving polio-free status.
Health officials continue to appeal to parents, guardians, and community leaders to support the vaccination campaign and help safeguard future generations from polio.
