Pakistan Launches Polio Drive 2026

Pakistan has officially launched its Polio Drive 2026 first nationwide polio vaccination campaign of 2026, marking a critical step in the country’s long fight against the polio virus.

The week-long drive runs from February 2 to February 8 and aims to vaccinate around 45 million children under the age of five years across 159 districts.

Health teams have been deployed nationwide to ensure every eligible child receives two drops of the oral polio vaccine, which experts say is safe, effective, and globally trusted.

High-Level Launch in Islamabad

The campaign was formally inaugurated in Islamabad at the CDA Rawal Town Dispensary, where senior government officials and international health partners gathered to show support.

The launch ceremony was attended by Pakistan’s Polio Eradication leadership, alongside representatives from WHO, UNICEF, and the Canadian High Commission. Local district authorities and frontline health workers were also present.

Officials personally interacted with vaccination teams and families, underlining the importance of community trust and cooperation at this decisive stage.

Pakistan Nears the Final Mile Against Polio Virus

Since Pakistan began polio eradication efforts in 1994, the country has made remarkable progress.

Annual cases have dropped by over 99 percent, falling from an estimated 20,000 cases per year in the 1990s to 31 reported cases in 2025.

Health authorities credit this progress to repeated door-to-door campaigns, strong government leadership, and the tireless work of more than 400,000 frontline vaccinators who operate in challenging conditions during each drive.

Health officials stress that polio remains a threat until transmission is completely stopped.

Each campaign plays a vital role, especially in protecting children who may have missed earlier doses. Experts emphasize that children need repeated vaccinations to build strong immunity.

During the launch, officials urged parents, teachers, religious leaders, media, and community influencers to continue supporting vaccination efforts and counter misinformation.

The delegation also visited a local girls’ school in Islamabad, where students asked questions about health and vaccines, showing growing awareness among young Pakistanis.

United Push for a Polio-Free Pakistan

As Pakistan enters what officials call the “final phase” of eradication, the government and international partners have renewed their commitment to stay united and focused.

Health authorities believe consistent public cooperation can help Pakistan finally eliminate polio and secure a healthier future for coming generations.