Karachi, Pakistan (HRNW)- Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has expressed satisfaction over the high coverage achieved during the first National Immunization Days (NIDs) of 2026, stating that overall administrative coverage reached 100 percent, while door-to-door vaccination coverage stood at 99 percent across the province.
The Provincial Emergency Operations Center (PEOC) presented a detailed report at the Chief Minister’s House on Wednesday regarding the anti-polio campaign conducted from February 2 to 8, 2026.
Despite the encouraging figures, the report identified approximately 237,216 children (2.6 percent) who remain unvaccinated, with a significant number concentrated in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions. The Chief Minister directed authorities to ensure that no child is left vulnerable to the poliovirus.
Murad Ali Shah emphasized that polio eradication is only possible through collective efforts involving parents, communities, media, and the government. “If we work together, we can protect our children from lifelong disability and secure a healthier future for Pakistan,” he said, adding that eliminating polio is a national responsibility and the Sindh government is taking all necessary measures to achieve this goal.
He noted that while the data indicates polio is under control, the virus still exists and complacency could reverse progress. “It is unfortunate that only two countries in the world — Afghanistan and Pakistan — continue to report polio cases. Vaccination remains the only effective solution,” he stated.
The Chief Minister instructed the Health Department to accelerate outreach in urban centers such as Karachi and Hyderabad to reach remaining unvaccinated children. He also directed the PEOC to prioritize follow-up activities for zero-dose children to strengthen their immunity. Deputy Commissioners were instructed to maintain active monitoring at the Union Council level to address any local coverage gaps.
Murad Ali Shah further appealed to media organizations to continue broadcasting polio awareness messages at the beginning of news bulletins to sustain vaccine demand. He urged local Union Council representatives and religious scholars to guide families who are still hesitant about vaccinating their children.
Reviewing the report, the Chief Minister reiterated that complete eradication of polio is essential for a healthy future and directly linked the fight against the disease to children’s physical development and overall well-being. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to continuing efforts until polio is fully eliminated, stressing that there will be no compromise on children’s health.
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