Health workers in Pakistan have commenced a crucial campaign to vaccinate 9.5 million children against polio across 41 districts this week. The initiative, part of a national effort, includes targeting areas where polio-positive sewage samples have been detected, underscoring ongoing challenges in eradication efforts.
The vaccination drive spans 16 districts in Balochistan, 11 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, eight in Sindh, and five in Punjab, according to local media reports. Despite significant vaccination efforts, Pakistan remains one of the two countries globally where polio is endemic, alongside Afghanistan, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
In 2021 alone, Pakistan has reported six cases of polio, highlighting persistent transmission risks. This year’s cases, linked to the YB3A cluster originating in Afghanistan, reflect broader challenges despite administering over 300 million vaccine doses annually.
The polio eradication program faces multifaceted hurdles, including resistance rooted in historical mistrust and misinformation. Issues such as security threats and logistical complexities also hinder efforts, with health workers often targeted and harassed during campaigns. Since 2015, at least 102 personnel involved in polio campaigns have lost their lives to violence.
Amid ongoing challenges, health officials express cautious optimism, aiming to make Pakistan polio-free by 2026. Despite setbacks, progress in reducing cases from 147 in 2019 to six this year demonstrates resilience and adaptation in vaccination strategies.
The WHO continues to support Pakistan’s efforts, emphasizing the need for sustained community engagement and targeted interventions to achieve eradication goals.