A recent report from the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) revealed that a significant number of parents in Karachi refused to vaccinate their children against polio in May. This concerning trend highlights the ongoing challenge of eradicating polio in the region.

According to the report, a total of 37,711 parents declined the polio vaccine last month, indicating a rise in refusal cases. District East had the highest number of refusals, with 9,433 parents opting out. District Central and Kemari followed closely behind with 7,141 and 7,111 refusals, respectively.

In addition, District Korangi and District Malir reported 3,453 and 4,606 refusals, respectively. The District South and District West also saw a significant number of parents, 3,145 and 2,922 respectively, refusing the vaccine.

The EOC emphasized that the refusal rate during anti-polio campaigns remains a persistent challenge and highlighted the importance of parental support in polio eradication efforts. Special focus is being given to high-risk union councils to address misunderstandings and raise awareness about the importance of vaccination.

Recently, the Pakistan Polio Programme launched its third National Immunisation Days (NIDs) campaign to further its goal of making Pakistan a polio-free nation. Polio, a highly infectious disease that primarily affects young children, can have severe consequences, including paralysis and death. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect children from polio, as there is currently no cure for the disease.