Polio eradication remains national priority: Mustafa Kamal

Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has reaffirmed that polio eradication remains a national priority for Pakistan. During his visit to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for Polio, Kamal stressed the need for a modern, integrated strategy to overcome challenges and achieve a polio-free nation.

Pakistan, alongside Afghanistan, remains one of the last two countries where polio is still endemic. The disease primarily affects children under five, often leading to lifelong paralysis. Despite global efforts, obstacles such as vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and security concerns have hindered progress.

Kamal highlighted the importance of addressing vaccine refusals, requesting a detailed report on families declining vaccination. He praised the dedication of frontline workers and district administrations while emphasizing the need to utilize all available resources to eliminate the virus.

The minister expressed particular concern over Sindh, where four out of six polio cases in 2025 were reported. He noted that 43,000 parents in Sindh, including 42,000 in Karachi alone, have refused to vaccinate their children. Kamal urged parents to ensure their children receive polio drops during the upcoming National Polio Campaign in April, stating, “With the cooperation of parents, we can rid the country of polio once and for all.”

Kamal also voiced alarm over the persistent presence of the poliovirus in Karachi’s sewage samples, calling for more effective community engagement and intensified vaccination efforts. Provincial EOC Coordinator Irshad Ali Sodhar assured that all stakeholders in Karachi are collaborating to ensure no child is left unvaccinated.

The federal and provincial governments remain committed to eradicating polio, reinforcing their dedication to a healthier, polio-free future. Earlier this week, Kamal declared polio eradication a national responsibility and vowed to take all necessary steps during his tenure to eliminate the virus.

Polio, a highly infectious disease, attacks the nervous system and can cause paralysis or death. While there is no cure, vaccination is the most effective way to protect children. Repeated immunizations have successfully eradicated polio in nearly all countries worldwide, underscoring the importance of sustained efforts in Pakistan.