Islamabad: Pakistan, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has renewed its commitment to promoting the lifesaving impact of vaccines as part of World Immunization Week. The initiative, which runs annually from April 24 to 30, aims to protect millions across the nation from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Since the inception of Pakistan’s Expanded Programme on Immunization in 1978, a partnership with WHO, millions of citizens have been immunized. Annually, over 7 million children receive routine vaccinations, while supplementary polio campaigns reach 45 million children. Globally, vaccines have saved 154 million lives over the past 50 years.
Under the theme “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible,” the Federal Directorate of Immunization, in collaboration with provincial Expanded Programmes, WHO, UNICEF, and partners, will conduct activities to highlight the critical role of vaccines.
Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal emphasized the importance of immunization in his World Immunization Week 2025 message. He noted the ongoing efforts to increase coverage, ensuring timely vaccine delivery to every child. Kamal also highlighted Pakistan’s status as one of the few countries where polio remains present, reaffirming the government’s commitment to its eradication.
He urged religious scholars, media, and civil society to actively participate in the anti-polio campaign, stressing shared responsibility in securing a healthy future for children.
Dr. Shabana Saleem, Director General of FDI, underscored the program’s dedication to providing vaccine access to all, regardless of location or circumstances.
Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative in Pakistan, reiterated the organization’s support for Pakistan’s immunization efforts. He emphasized the safety and efficacy of vaccines, noting WHO’s longstanding partnership with Pakistan since 1948.
The EPI program in Pakistan offers free vaccination against 12 preventable diseases, underscoring the collaborative efforts to achieve widespread immunization.