ISLAMABAD: On the occasion of World Polio Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to eradicate polio and urged parents across the nation to ensure that their children receive the lifesaving vaccine during every campaign.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s House, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the more than 400,000 frontline vaccinators—many of them women—who protect over 45 million children in multiple national campaigns every year.
“The services of our polio workers reflect the very best of Pakistan’s strength and compassion. On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, I extend heartfelt appreciation to these true heroes whose tireless efforts continue to safeguard the health and dignity of our children,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
He noted that since 1994, Pakistan has reduced polio cases by an extraordinary 99.6 percent—from an estimated 20,000 annual cases to 74 in 2024, and 30 so far this year—thanks to the dedicated efforts of vaccination teams, health authorities, and partner organizations.
During the event organized by the Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI), the Prime Minister presented shields to 14 outstanding polio workers nominated from across the provinces and regions for their exemplary performance and service.
While recognizing this progress, the Prime Minister stressed that Pakistan must “run the last mile” to achieve complete eradication.
“World Polio Day reminds us of the tremendous progress Pakistan has made, and the responsibility that remains to protect every child from this preventable disease,” he said. “Even a single case means our work is not done. Ending polio is not merely a public health goal—it is a national responsibility that must be achieved without fail.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s full commitment to supporting ongoing eradication efforts and encouraged every citizen to play their part by ensuring that children under five receive the polio drops during every campaign.
Led by the Prime Minister, the World Polio Day ceremony highlighted Pakistan’s remarkable progress toward a polio-free future and honored the selfless contribution of thousands of health workers safeguarding the nation’s children from paralysis.
