Islamabad: Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, during a high-level meeting, outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at halting the polio outbreak that has seen a resurgence with 32 reported cases across Pakistan this year. The meeting, attended by key health officials and representatives from international organizations, focused on reversing the spread of the virus through enhanced vaccination efforts and public cooperation.

According to Press Information Department, the strategy includes intensified immunization campaigns to close the immunity gap among children, particularly in areas hardest hit by the virus. Dr. Bharath emphasized the urgent need for robust routine immunization and parental engagement to ensure all children receive necessary vaccinations. He highlighted that the recent outbreak marks a significant setback after nearly achieving eradication, with the virus re-emerging primarily from cross-border transmission with Afghanistan. The planned immunization campaigns aim to vaccinate over 45 million children by the end of the year, alongside efforts to improve surveillance and coordinate with neighboring countries to prevent further spread.