Balochistan Launches First Polio Eradication Campaign of 2025, Over 2.6 Million Children to Be Vaccinated
Quetta (February 3, 2025)
The first polio eradication campaign of 2025 has commenced across Balochistan today, aiming to vaccinate over 2.66 million children against polio.
The seven-day campaign will involve more than 11,653 polio workers ensuring that every child under the age of five receives the life-saving vaccine.
Objectives and Preparations for the Polio Campaign
According to Inam-ul-Haq, Coordinator of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Balochistan, this campaign is crucial to preventing the spread of the poliovirus and making Balochistan polio-free.
He emphasized that the presence of the virus in environmental samples and the detection of cases in the province necessitate this campaign.
Inam-ul-Haq urged all parents to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine, warning that failure to do so could result in lifelong disability.
He also highlighted the importance of routine immunization alongside polio drops to provide comprehensive protection against diseases.
Polio Situation in Balochistan
In 2024, Balochistan reported the highest number of polio cases in Pakistan, with 27 cases recorded in Chaman, Dera Bugti, Qilla Abdullah, Quetta, Jhal Magsi, Zhob, Qilla Saifullah, Pishin, Loralai, Nushki, Chagai, Kharan, and Jaffarabad.
Health experts warn that the continued presence of the poliovirus poses a significant threat to children, and any gaps in vaccination efforts could lead to more infections.
Inam-ul-Haq outlined the deployment of 11,653 teams across the province, including:
9,329 mobile teams conducting door-to-door vaccinations.
962 fixed vaccination centers where parents can bring their children for immunization.
585 transit points ensuring vaccination of children on the move.
Role of Civil Society, Teachers, and Religious Scholars
The EOC coordinator called upon civil society organizations, teachers, and religious scholars to support the campaign by raising awareness about the importance of polio vaccination.
He also urged parents to contact local authorities if their children are missed during the campaign.
Challenges and Commitment of Polio Workers
Despite harsh weather conditions and security risks, polio workers continue to fulfill their national duty, ensuring no child is left unprotected.
Efforts are also being made to strengthen routine immunization programs to eliminate polio from Balochistan permanently.
Government and International Support
The Government of Pakistan, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other international organizations are actively supporting the campaign.
Authorities believe that with full parental cooperation, Balochistan can be made polio-free.
This vaccination drive will continue until February 9, 2025, with hopes of achieving its target successfully.
If a polio team has not reached your area, please contact local health authorities to ensure your child receives the vaccine.
