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Islamabad, February 3, 2025 – Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially launched a nationwide anti-polio campaign for 2025, reaffirming his government’s commitment to completely eradicating the disease from the country.
The week-long immunization campaign, running from February 3 to February 9, aims to vaccinate millions of children across the nation. Addressing the launching ceremony, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the significance of the campaign, stating that safeguarding children’s future and health remains a top priority for his administration.
“Polio teams will reach even the most remote villages and far-flung areas to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated,” the prime minister said, expressing confidence in the teams’ ability to fulfill their national duty.
Sharif highlighted last year’s challenge, where 73 polio cases were reported across Pakistan, marking a significant setback in the fight against the disease. However, he noted that only one case has been reported so far this year, signaling progress in national eradication efforts.
The prime minister further stressed the importance of collective efforts, stating that dedicated teamwork and international cooperation remain essential to eliminating polio. “With the support of our global partners and the commitment of our frontline workers, we will defeat this disease,” he added.
Understanding Polio
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children. The virus spreads through person-to-person contact, mainly via the fecal-oral route, and multiplies in the intestine. In severe cases, the disease can invade the nervous system, causing irreversible paralysis within hours.
Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, neck stiffness, and limb pain. One in 200 infections leads to permanent paralysis, with 5–10% of these cases resulting in death due to immobilized breathing muscles.
There is currently no cure for polio, but it can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The polio vaccine, administered multiple times, provides lifelong immunity. Two vaccines are commonly used worldwide: the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), both of which have proven to be safe and effective in preventing the disease.
A Step Toward a Polio-Free Pakistan
Pakistan remains one of the few countries where polio remains endemic. However, with consistent vaccination drives, enhanced awareness, and increased international support, the country is making steady progress toward eradication. Health officials urge parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the vaccine to protect them and contribute to the national goal of a polio-free Pakistan.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on available reports from government sources and the World Health Organization. Readers are advised to consult official health authorities for further guidance and updates on the polio eradication campaign.
