Islamabad: In a major push against polio, nearly 33 million children under five were vaccinated across Pakistan during a nationwide campaign in September. The campaign, which is a critical part of the country’s ongoing efforts to eradicate polio, covered 116 districts, particularly focusing on areas at high risk of the virus.

According to Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, a high-level review meeting was held in Islamabad to evaluate the campaign’s outcomes. The meeting was led by the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, and included Mr. Anwarul Haq, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Center for Polio Eradication, along with coordinators from the provincial Emergency Operations Centers.

The review session highlighted the campaign’s successful vaccination of millions, with a special focus on high-risk regions where polio continues to pose a significant threat. Ms. Farooq praised the effective execution of the campaign, noting significant improvements in operational gaps and enhanced inter-provincial coordination, which were crucial to reaching mobile and migrant populations.

“Despite facing logistical challenges, the strengthened collaboration among provincial governments, health teams, and law enforcement agencies ensured extensive coverage,” Ms. Farooq stated. She emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance and continuous effort, especially in light of the 24 polio cases reported in Pakistan in 2024, with the latest from Hyderabad district in Sindh.

The meeting also set the stage for future initiatives, with two more vaccination campaigns scheduled for October and November. These campaigns aim to address any shortcomings identified in September’s efforts and to solidify strategies for reaching children in remote and hard-to-access areas.

Coordinator Captain Anwaarul Haq underscored the importance of these upcoming campaigns. “The recent polio cases are a stark reminder that our work is not yet done. We must keep improving our strategies to ensure no child is left vulnerable to polio,” he remarked.

In conclusion, Ms. Farooq expressed her gratitude for the robust support from the government, donors, and international partners, which she believes will be pivotal in achieving polio eradication by mid-2025. The Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme continues its mission to eliminate polio and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.