PPA, PMA, pediatricians endorse polio booster dose campaign in Karachi
Sidra Arif
Karachi, The Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA), Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), and leading pediatricians from across Karachi convened on Wednesday to endorse the upcoming polio booster dose campaign, scheduled to be implemented in 89 Union Councils of Karachi from May 12–25.
The consultation was held at the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology, bringing together key health experts and development partners. Representatives from UNICEF, World Health Organization, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and N-STOP participated, reflecting strong collective commitment to polio eradication efforts in Sindh.
The session underscored unified support from PPA, PMA, and the pediatric community, who described the booster dose as a critical intervention to strengthen immunity among children and curb poliovirus transmission.
Speaking at the session, Dr Iqbal Memon emphasized the need to expand the campaign across all areas of Karachi to ensure comprehensive protection for children.
Coordinator of the Emergency Operations Centre, Sheheryar Memon, highlighted that five environmental samples in Karachi have recently tested positive for poliovirus, underscoring the urgency of intensified response efforts. He noted that virus circulation during a typically low transmission season remains a serious concern.
He further shared that extensive preparations are underway ahead of the campaign, with a strong focus on training and enhancing the capacity of frontline workers to safely and effectively administer the vaccine. “All segments of society—including religious scholars, teachers, media, and government departments—are being mobilized to ensure the success of this campaign,” he said.
Reinforcing the importance of community engagement, he urged parents to welcome polio teams and ensure their children receive the booster dose.
Highlighting global progress, Sheheryar Memon noted that polio cases have declined dramatically from 188,000 in 1988 to just six cases globally in 2026, while stressing the need for sustained vigilance in high-risk areas.
The campaign will target children up to 10 years of age, with health experts emphasizing that waning immunity over time makes booster doses essential for continued protection.
Dr Sandeep noted that the polio booster dose is part of routine immunization schedules in over 120 countries worldwide. Dr Azeem Khawaja shared that the vaccine has been procured from Indonesia and will be administered using jet injectors to ensure a safe and efficient vaccination process.
Pediatrician Dr Khalid Shafi reassured that the polio booster dose is free, safe, halal, and pain-free.
Dr George from the World Health Organization expressed concern over the intensity of poliovirus circulation in Karachi and noted that successful strategies implemented in Africa are being adapted to interrupt transmission.
The consultation concluded with a strong call for collective action from all stakeholders to sustain momentum toward a polio-free Pakistan.
