Pakistan has officially launched its third nationwide polio vaccination drive of 2025, aiming to immunize over 40 million children under the age of five across the country.
The campaign began on [insert date], with health workers mobilized to reach vulnerable populations, particularly in high-risk and hard-to-reach areas. This effort is a key component of Pakistan’s ongoing mission to eliminate polio, a disease that remains endemic in certain regions despite global progress.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that thousands of vaccinators are actively working throughout the country, including remote districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where polio transmission persists.
The campaign’s objective is to provide the oral polio vaccine (OPV) to children, safeguarding them against the crippling effects of the virus.
Nationwide Effort and Government Commitment
According to Dr. Faisal Sultan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health,
Protecting every child against polio is a national priority. We call on all parents to support the vaccination teams and ensure their children receive the vaccine during this crucial campaign.
His statement underscores the government’s firm commitment to eradicating polio, which remains a public health challenge in parts of Pakistan.
The vaccination campaign is carried out in collaboration with international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, who provide technical support and resources.
These organizations have long been involved in Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts and continue to assist in overcoming challenges such as vaccine hesitancy and access barriers.
For more details on polio vaccination campaigns and their impact, visit the Global Polio Eradication Initiative website.
Challenges Facing Polio Eradication in Pakistan
While Pakistan has made significant progress in reducing polio cases over the past decade, challenges remain. Security issues in conflict-affected areas limit the movement of vaccination teams, while misinformation and distrust among some communities contribute to vaccine refusal. These factors have kept polio endemic in certain pockets despite ongoing campaigns.
The provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan report the highest number of polio cases, making them the focal points of the government’s eradication strategy.
Local authorities, along with health workers, have increased community engagement efforts to address concerns and educate parents on the safety and importance of vaccination.
Recent reports from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) reveal a decline in polio cases in Pakistan during 2025, reflecting the positive impact of these sustained efforts. However, experts warn that continued vigilance and uninterrupted vaccination campaigns are essential to completely eradicate the disease.
The Importance of Continued Vaccination Campaigns
The third polio vaccination drive of 2025 is crucial in Pakistan’s fight to end polio. Interruptions or delays in vaccination efforts risk the resurgence of the virus and threaten global eradication progress.
Public cooperation and awareness are vital to achieving full immunization coverage.
Parents and caregivers are urged to ensure their children receive the oral polio vaccine during this campaign. Health officials have reiterated that the vaccine is safe, effective, and free of charge.
For more information on child health and vaccination programs, readers can visit Pakistan’s Ministry of National Health Services website or UNICEF’s official Pakistan page.
