LAHORE - Punjab has recorded significant progress in its fight against polio, with substantial reductions in poliovirus circulation, improved campaign performance and stronger vaccination coverage across the province.
However, authorities have cautioned that continued vigilance and collective action remain essential to achieve the ultimate goal of a polio-free Punjab.
Chief Minister's Focal Person Highlights Achievements
Speaking at a media engagement session on polio eradication, Ms Uzma Kardar, Chief Minister’s Focal Person on Polio and Member of the Punjab Assembly, highlighted the province’s recent achievements while emphasizing the need to sustain momentum.
“Protecting every child from polio remains one of the Government of Punjab’s highest public health priorities. While we have made encouraging progress, the threat has not disappeared. We must continue our efforts until every child is protected and poliovirus transmission is interrupted permanently,” said Ms. Kardar.
She noted that environmental surveillance data have shown a marked decline in poliovirus detections compared to previous years, reflecting improvements in campaign quality, surveillance systems and vaccination outreach activities.
Lahore's Turnaround
Ms. Kardar particularly highlighted the progress achieved in Lahore, historically considered one of the province’s most challenging districts due to its large population, high mobility, migrant communities and underserved urban settlements.
“Lahore’s turnaround demonstrates what can be achieved through strong political commitment, evidence-based planning and rigorous implementation. Focused interventions in high-risk union councils, enhanced monitoring, stronger accountability and improved outreach to mobile and migrant populations have contributed to significant improvements in campaign quality and reductions in missed children,” she said.
She added that community engagement efforts have also strengthened trust and acceptance of vaccination services, helping improve household coverage across high-risk areas.
Warning Against Complacency
Despite these gains, Ms. Kardar warned against complacency.
“Even a small number of missed children can allow the virus to persist and spread. The current high transmission season requires all stakeholders to remain alert and committed to reaching every child,” she said.
Chief Whip Praises Coordinated Efforts
Addressing the session, Mr. Rana Muhammad Arshad, Chief Whip, Punjab Assembly, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), praised the coordinated efforts of health authorities, district administrations, development partners and frontline workers in advancing the province’s eradication efforts.
“Punjab is closer than ever to achieving a polio-free future. The reduction in virus circulation and the approximately 41 percent decline in missed-children clusters demonstrate the impact of coordinated action, data-driven planning and strong government oversight,” said Mr. Arshad.
He emphasized that frontline workers continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding children against polio.
“Our frontline workers remain the backbone of the polio eradication programme. They work tirelessly in challenging environments to ensure that every child is reached. Their dedication has been instrumental in Punjab’s progress, and the government remains committed to supporting and motivating them through enhanced operational support and improved incentives,” he said.
Mr. Arshad noted that particular emphasis has been placed on identifying and vaccinating children among mobile and migrant populations, strengthening campaign planning through data analysis and improving coordination among all stakeholders involved in the eradication effort.
Importance of Repeated Vaccination
Both leaders stressed the importance of repeated vaccination, explaining that every child under five years of age must receive the oral polio vaccine during every campaign to build and maintain strong immunity against the virus.
“Parents should never assume that one or two doses are enough. Every vaccination opportunity matters. Opening the door to a vaccinator means opening the door to protection for your child,” said Ms. Kardar.
Role of Media
The speakers also acknowledged the vital role of media in supporting eradication efforts through accurate reporting, public awareness and countering misinformation about vaccines.
“Media remains an indispensable partner in the fight against polio. Responsible reporting strengthens public confidence and encourages communities to participate in vaccination campaigns,” said Mr. Arshad.
Call for Sustained Collective Action
Calling for sustained collective action, both leaders urged government institutions, elected representatives, civil society organizations, religious leaders, media professionals and communities to continue working together to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated.
“Punjab’s progress against polio demonstrates the power of leadership, frontline worker dedication and community partnership. While we celebrate the gains achieved so far, we must remain vigilant and committed until polio becomes a disease of the past and every child is protected from paralysis,” they concluded.
