Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal officially launched the third national anti-polio campaign of 2025 during a press conference at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC). On this occasion, he administered polio drops and vitamin A supplements to children under the age of five.
The health minister paid tribute to frontline workers participating in the campaign, calling them national heroes. He emphasized that polio eradication remains a top priority for the Government of Pakistan and that all available resources are being utilized to achieve this goal.
He announced that during the ongoing campaign, nearly 45.4 million children under the age of five across the country will be given the polio vaccine. He noted that this is the second time Pakistan and Afghanistan have launched synchronized polio drives, as they are the only two countries in the world where the virus still exists.
The minister revealed that recent environmental samples have shown the presence of the poliovirus in 50 out of 89 districts across the country. He warned that this deadly virus is lurking all around our children, and the only way to protect them is through vaccination. He urged parents to ensure their children receive polio drops under all circumstances to prevent permanent disability.
“Cancer can be treated, but polio is still incurable,” Kamal stated. “The entire world has eradicated this deadly disease through the same vaccine. Disregard negative rumors and protect your children from this incurable virus,” he added.
He further appealed to parents by saying, “For God’s sake, think — if your child becomes disabled, you will be answerable in the court of God.” He expressed his commitment to continue making every effort and praying for a safe and bright future for the children of Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The health minister also noted encouraging results from the recent polio campaign in Karachi, conducted in collaboration with public representatives. He stated that the number of vaccine refusals has significantly decreased. He stressed that strong community participation is essential to eliminate polio.
“In the same way our nation united to resist India, we must also stand together like a solid wall against polio,” Kamal concluded.
