ICT polio campaign surpasses target with over 466,000 children vaccinated

ISLAMABAD: The week-long polio immunization campaign in Islamabad, which began on December 16 and will run until December 22, has made remarkable progress, exceeding its initial target.

Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon inaugurated the drive by administering polio drops to children at a local bus stand. The campaign initially set out to vaccinate 461,125 children under the age of five across the federal capital.

With door-to-door teams actively working in all union councils and additional teams deployed at bus stands, schools, and public places, the effort has already surpassed expectations. By the fifth day of the campaign, 466,724 children had been vaccinated, exceeding the target by 5,599.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Mehreen Baloch announced the achievement during a review meeting. She praised the teams’ efforts, including addressing refusal cases on-site and successfully convincing families to allow vaccination for their children. Baloch emphasized that the public’s cooperation has been instrumental in the campaign’s success.

The campaign will continue in the remaining days to reach any unvaccinated children and ensure comprehensive coverage. Teams remain committed to administering the vaccine to all eligible children within the stipulated timeline.

The Islamabad administration has urged residents to continue supporting the campaign, underscoring its vital role in eradicating polio and securing a healthier future for Pakistan’s next generation.