Polio Vaccination Campaign Launched in Balochistan

Balochistan has commenced a week-long polio vaccination drive today (December 30), aiming to immunize over 2.6 million children under the age of five.

This initiative comes in response to a concerning surge in polio cases in the province.

In 2024, Pakistan has reported 67 cases of polio, with 27 emerging from Balochistan, making it the worst-hit region.

Alarmed by this trend, the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has intensified efforts to combat the disease and safeguard children from lifelong paralysis.

“We appeal to all parents to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine. Your role is crucial in securing a healthy future for the next generation,” said an EOC spokesperson. Authorities hope that collective action will help reduce polio cases in the province in the months ahead.

Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only polio-endemic countries globally.

While Pakistan had achieved a significant reduction in cases in recent years, 2024 saw a troubling resurgence.

The Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme underscores that polio is a paralysing disease with no cure, emphasizing the importance of routine vaccinations to build immunity.

The government has conducted several vaccination drives in 2024, with the latest nationwide campaign concluding earlier this month.

However, efforts face persistent hurdles, including misinformation, insecurity, and parental refusals, which limit the reach of vaccination teams.

Notably, over 60% of children affected by polio this year had missed routine immunizations.

In response, health authorities have established a high-level committee to strengthen collaboration between the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) and the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI).

Officials remain optimistic that with increased community participation, Balochistan can overcome these challenges and make strides toward eradicating polio.