A massive anti-polio campaign will begin tomorrow (Monday) throughout the province of Balochistan. This critical week-long effort aims to vaccinate more than 2.655 million children, boosting their protection against this debilitating disease. In addition to polio drops, children will also receive Vitamin A supplements to promote overall health.
Polio Eradication Within Reach
Excitingly, Balochistan has been polio-free since 2021. However, recent detection of the poliovirus in sewage samples from the Lasbela district highlights the need for continued vigilance. Traces of the virus were found to be linked to the Gadap area of Karachi. This discovery underscores the importance of ongoing immunization efforts.
Nationwide Action Against Polio
Last month, Pakistan’s Ministry of Health found the poliovirus in environmental samples from nine districts across the country. In response, a comprehensive three-phase vaccination campaign was launched on January 8th to protect over 40 million children under the age of five.
Why This Matters
Polio is a highly infectious disease that can lead to paralysis and even death. While there is no cure, it is entirely preventable with vaccination. Pakistan, alongside its partners, is making tremendous strides in the fight to eradicate polio. These continued immunization drives are crucial to safeguard the health of children and achieve a polio-free future.