Pakistan’s Determined Fight Against Polio in 2026

Pakistan has officially launched its first nationwide anti-polio campaign of 2026, marking a significant step in the country’s ongoing battle against the virus. The seven-day drive aims to vaccinate more than 45 million children under the age of five, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating polio once and for all.

Health authorities announced that over 400,000 trained volunteers will go door-to-door across the country to administer polio drops. This massive mobilization reflects the urgency of tackling a disease that continues to pose a threat, especially as Pakistan remains one of only two countries where polio is still endemic.

The campaign comes after encouraging progress. Pakistan reported 31 polio cases in 2025, a sharp decline compared to 74 cases in 2024. Officials believe this reduction demonstrates the effectiveness of sustained vaccination efforts, but they stress that complete eradication requires consistent nationwide participation.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah inaugurated the campaign in Karachi by personally administering polio drops to children. His message was clear: the virus must be uprooted entirely to secure a healthier future for the nation’s youngest generation.

The Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, emphasized that the campaign will run from February 2 to 8, covering Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. She urged parents to cooperate fully with vaccination teams to ensure every child receives protection.

The National Emergency Operations Center highlighted that six national campaigns were conducted in 2025, underscoring the government’s dedication to consistent action. However, challenges remain. Polio workers and their security escorts have often been targeted in militant attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. A tragic incident in Bajaur in December 2025 claimed the lives of a police constable and a civilian during a vaccination drive.

Natural disasters, including floods, have also disrupted campaigns in recent years, making it harder to reach children in remote areas. Despite these obstacles, Pakistan continues to push forward, determined to eliminate polio through resilience, community cooperation, and unwavering commitment.

This latest campaign is more than just a health initiative—it is a national mission to protect millions of children and secure a polio-free future for Pakistan.