Staff Reporter
Quetta – In a crucial step toward eradicating polio in Pakistan, the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Balochistan has announced the launch of a week-long polio vaccination campaign starting July 28 in sensitive union councils across Balochistan, including Quetta, Pishin, Chaman, Dera Bugti, Duki, Zhob, and Qila Abdullah.
As part of this intensified effort, 585,490 children aged between 4 and 59 months will be administered the fractional Inactivated Polio Vaccine (fIPV), along with Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) drops to strengthen immunity and prevent virus transmission.
The campaign, which will run till August 4, will cover 123 high-risk union councils identified due to recent detections of poliovirus or poor immunization coverage.
According to the EOC Balochistan, 1,835 vaccination teams have been mobilized for this comprehensive immunization drive, with strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of health workers across all districts involved.
Why fIPV Matters
Health experts highlight that the fIPV injections are particularly effective for malnourished children or those frequently suffering from infections, as they provide stronger protection compared to oral vaccines alone.
“This campaign is a critical part of our broader strategy to halt the transmission of the poliovirus and boost immunity in vulnerable children,” said EOC Balochistan Coordinator Inam ul Haq.
He urged all parents to ensure their children receive both the injectable and oral vaccines, emphasizing that these vaccines are safe and effective.
The campaign will target children from birth to 59 months with OPV drops, ensuring early protection against the debilitating disease.
A Strong Message to Parents
“Parents must realize the importance of polio vaccines and cooperate with vaccination teams. It is the only way we can protect our future generations from permanent disability,” Inam ul Haq added.
The EOC also reiterated its commitment to polio eradication, with support from national and international partners. The combined use of fIPV and OPV is expected to significantly enhance the chances of achieving a polio-free Balochistan in the near future.
