The Emergency Operation Center (EOC) has reported a concerning rise in the number of parents refusing to vaccinate their children against polio in Karachi.
According to data released by the EOC, at least 37,711 parents declined polio vaccination for their children during the month of May. The refusal rate has seen a noticeable increase, as more and more parents across the city are consistently avoiding polio drops for their children.
The report highlights that in the Korangi district alone, at least 3,453 parents refused the vaccine, while in Malir district the number was even higher, with 4,606 refusals. The EOC further noted that in May, 3,145 parents from District South and 2,922 from District West also refused polio vaccination.
In comparison, the number of refusals recorded in April stood at 37,360.
”The rate of refusal during polio campaigns remains a constant challenge,” the EOC stated. “Sustained cooperation from parents is essential to achieve polio eradication.”
Special attention is being given to union councils identified as high-risk for polio transmission. The EOC has identified misconceptions and lack of awareness as the main reasons behind the refusal of the vaccine.
