Islamabad: Pakistan has launched its World Immunization Week 2026 commemorations with a renewed commitment to protecting children through vaccination. The Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI), in collaboration with provincial and area Expanded Programmes on Immunization (EPIs) and partners, leads the annual initiative, which emphasizes the critical role of vaccines in preventing diseases.

According to Press Information Department, this year’s campaign, themed “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,” highlights the importance of both individual and collective responsibility in maintaining public health. The event encourages participation primarily through digital platforms and electronic media, aligning with current austerity measures while ensuring broad outreach and engagement.

Dr. Musa Khan, Director General of the FDI, underscored the significance of routine immunization in fostering a healthy nation. He emphasized the necessity of timely vaccinations for every child to build resilient communities and protect against 13 life-threatening diseases. He acknowledged the ongoing challenge of reaching children in underserved areas but reaffirmed the commitment to addressing this gap through enhanced outreach and community engagement.

In conjunction with these efforts, Pakistan continues its progress towards polio eradication, reporting only one case this year, marking a crucial step towards interrupting transmission. Collaborative efforts with partners such as Gavi, WHO, UNICEF, and others focus on expanding coverage, improving service delivery, and combating vaccine misinformation.

World Immunization Week 2026 calls on all stakeholders, including parents, caregivers, community leaders, and health workers, to ensure every child receives full immunization, thereby safeguarding future generations.