Polio booster dose campaign enters third day in Karachi 536,000 children vaccinated so far in 89 Union Councils

Press release

Karachi, May 14, 2026: The ongoing polio booster dose campaign in Karachi has successfully entered its third day, with 536,000 children vaccinated so far across 89 Union Councils, according to the Sindh Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
The EOC said the campaign is progressing smoothly with encouraging public response and strong cooperation from parents. Polio eradication teams continue to vaccinate children in schools, neighbourhoods, underserved population including street children and other community locations to ensure maximum coverage.
“The cooperation shown by parents is highly commendable and critical for the success of the campaign,” the EOC stated, urging families to continue supporting vaccination teams and ensure that every eligible child receives protection against polio.
The booster dose campaign has been launched as part of Pakistan’s broader polio eradication strategy and is aimed at strengthening immunity among children living in high-risk areas. Health authorities said Karachi remains a high-risk reservoir for poliovirus due to its dense population, continuous movement of people and environmental factors that allow the virus to circulate.
The EOC emphasized that the booster dose campaign has been recommended by leading health institutions including the Pakistan Pediatric Association and pediatric experts.
Officials noted that the booster dose is recommended by the World Health Organization and has already been administered in Lahore as part of enhanced immunity efforts.
The Sindh EOC urged parents to reject misinformation and rumours surrounding vaccination and instead rely on verified medical advice and scientific evidence.
“Sharing accurate information and countering myths is a collective responsibility. Every vaccinated child brings Karachi and Pakistan one step closer to a polio-free future,” the statement added.
The campaign will continue till May 24 across designated 89 Union Councils in Karachi.