First Lady Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari has appealed to the public for cooperation in the nationwide polio campaign starting from April 13.
In her message issued from the federal capital, Asifa Bhutto said that full cooperation should be extended in the nationwide polio vaccination campaign and it should be ensured that every child remains protected from this disease.
She said that the aim of this campaign is to administer anti polio drops to more than 45 million children under the age of five across all provinces and regions of the country, which is part of national efforts to eradicate polio.
The First Lady said that Pakistan is at a crucial stage in the fight against this virus, and after years of continuous efforts, the country is close to eliminating polio, and the upcoming phase is extremely important where reaching every child is essential.
Asifa Bhutto said that from April 13 to 19, frontline health workers will go door to door for vaccination, covering not only urban areas but also remote regions, and along with polio drops, children will also be given vitamin A to help strengthen their immunity and healthy growth.
Referring to progress, the First Lady said that 31 polio cases were reported across the country in 2025, while only one case has been reported so far in 2026.
Asifa Bhutto warned that the risk still exists. As long as the virus exists anywhere, it remains a threat everywhere. She urged parents and guardians to ensure their children receive polio drops in every campaign and complete routine vaccination as well.
She said that this campaign will be carried out in coordination with Afghanistan, reflecting a joint commitment to stop cross border transmission of the virus and eliminate remaining gaps.
Additionally, the First Lady appreciated the services of frontline workers, whose continuous efforts are playing a key role in reaching every household.
She emphasized collective commitment and said that polio eradication is now close and depends on the joint efforts of parents, families, communities and institutions, adding that no child should be left out of this campaign.
