Karachi: Pakistan’s First Lady, Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari, has called on parents and caregivers to ensure that children under the age of five receive polio vaccinations during the nation’s Sub-National Polio Vaccination Campaign, which runs from November 2 to November 8. The campaign seeks to vaccinate approximately 24 million children across 97 selected districts with the help of over 200,000 frontline polio workers.

According to Press Information Department, Pakistan has seen a 99.8 percent reduction in polio cases since the launch of its national eradication program in 1994. However, seven new cases reported in 2026 highlight the persistent challenge posed by the virus. The country aims to eliminate polio by June 2027, a goal that requires continued vaccination efforts targeting every eligible child.

Polio, which can cause lifelong paralysis, remains incurable but preventable through vaccination. The campaign stresses the importance of administering two drops of polio vaccine to every child under five during each campaign, regardless of previous doses received, and urges families to maintain timely routine immunizations.

The First Lady emphasized the crucial role of frontline workers, who often reach children in remote and difficult-to-access areas. She encouraged cooperation with these workers to ensure all children receive their vaccinations.

Parents, community representatives, and stakeholders are urged to support the campaign’s efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan, ensuring every child is protected from this preventable disease.