ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme (PPEP) on Thursday announced the launching of first national polio eradication campaign of 2026 across the country from February 2 to 8.
Addressing a press conference here, Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq said that during the campaign, more than 45 million children will be vaccinated against polio.
She also added that over 400,000 trained polio workers will go door to door to administer polio drops to children. She appealed to parents and communities for cooperate with polio teams during the campaign to ensure their children are vaccinated.
Ayesha Raza emphasized that federal and provincial departments are working in complete coordination for the eradication of polio, and reiterated the government’s strong commitment to eliminating the disease. She said public cooperation is crucial, while religious scholars and the media play an important role in raising awareness about polio vaccination.
She noted that 31 polio cases were reported in 2025, adding that the ultimate goal remains achieving zero polio cases. She clarified that no consequences have ever been reported due to the polio vaccine, though the threat of the virus still exists.
She further stated that 70 percent of the funding for polio campaigns is provided by international partners, while 30 percent is contributed by the government of Pakistan.
She said the Federal Health Minister, along with members of parliament, actively participated in the polio campaign, which significantly contributed to the reduction in cases. “Citizens across the country are fully cooperating in efforts to eradicate polio.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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