The government has decided to launch a nationwide Anti-Polio campaign in April to control the spread of the poliovirus in Pakistan. Health authorities say the campaign is part of continued efforts to eliminate the disease from the country.
According to officials, the second national Anti-Polio campaign of 2026 will take place from April 13 to April 19. During this period, health workers will visit homes across the country to vaccinate children.
More than 400,000 polio workers are expected to participate in the campaign. These workers will include health staff, volunteers, and security personnel supporting vaccination teams.
The nationwide Anti-Polio drive aims to ensure that every child under the age of five receives the polio vaccine. Authorities say repeated vaccination is necessary to protect children from the virus.
Pakistan continues to face challenges in eliminating polio completely. However, health officials believe regular vaccination campaigns are helping reduce the risk of infection.
According to the National Emergency Operations Centre, only one polio case has been reported in the country so far in 2026. Officials say this shows some progress in the fight against the disease.
Despite the low number of cases, the virus remains present in some areas. Environmental testing has detected poliovirus samples in 24 districts across Pakistan.
Health experts say environmental samples are an important indicator of virus circulation. These samples help authorities monitor whether the virus is still spreading silently.
Earlier this year, the first nationwide Anti-Polio campaign of 2026 was held from February 2 to February 8. During that drive, vaccination teams visited millions of households to immunize children.
Authorities say frequent vaccination rounds are necessary because the poliovirus spreads easily among unvaccinated children. Ensuring full coverage is key to stopping transmission.
The government is also working with international health organizations to support the campaign. These partnerships provide technical assistance, training, and vaccine supplies.
Security arrangements are also planned to protect vaccination teams during field operations. Officials say ensuring the safety of polio workers remains a priority.
Health authorities are urging parents to cooperate with vaccination teams during the upcoming Anti-Polio campaign. They stress that vaccination is safe and necessary to protect children from lifelong disability.
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Officials say continued public cooperation will be essential to finally eliminate polio from Pakistan.
