In Karachi, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) reported that in May alone, almost 38,000 parents refused the polio vaccine for their children, indicating a concerning rise in vaccination refusals.
The District East had the highest number of refusals, with over 9,000 parents opting out, followed by District Central and Kemari. District Korangi, Malir, South, and West also reported significant numbers of refusals in May.
Despite ongoing efforts, the EOC highlighted that vaccine refusal remains a challenge, emphasizing the importance of parental support for polio eradication. Special focus is being placed on at-risk union councils, with misunderstandings and lack of awareness identified as key factors contributing to refusals.
Last month, the Pakistan Polio Program initiated its third National Immunization Days (NIDs) campaign to work towards a polio-free Pakistan.
Source: The News International
