"Vaccine Hesitancy Surges: Over 60,000 Refuse Polio Vaccine in Pakistan's Latest Campaign"

In a concerning development, Pakistan has reported a staggering 60,906 refusals of the polio vaccine during its nationwide eradication campaign conducted from April 21 to 27, 2025. This alarming figure, disclosed by ARY News on Sunday, underscores the persistent challenge of vaccine hesitancy that continues to thwart efforts to eliminate polio from the country.

The province of Sindh emerged as the epicenter of this resistance, with an overwhelming 39,073 refusals, a majority of which—over 37,000—originated from the bustling metropolis of Karachi. This city, with its sprawling urban landscape and dense population, presents unique logistical challenges for health workers striving to reach every child under the age of five. Meanwhile, Balochistan, a region often grappling with its own set of socio-political issues, reported over 3,500 refusals, highlighting a widespread reluctance that transcends provincial boundaries.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the refusal rate was recorded at a relatively lower 0.4%, yet this seemingly minor percentage belies the critical need for comprehensive immunization coverage. Even in Punjab and the federal capital of Islamabad, cases of parental refusal were documented, painting a nationwide picture of skepticism and mistrust towards the polio vaccine.

This hesitancy comes at a time when Pakistan has confirmed its 13th polio case of the year, a stark reminder of the disease's persistent threat. The National Institute of Health (NIH) verified this latest case from the Ama Khel Union Council in the Tank district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, adding urgency to the ongoing vaccination efforts.

Polio, a paralyzing disease with no known cure, can only be prevented through the administration of multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine. The Pakistan Polio Program, in its relentless pursuit of eradication, conducts several mass vaccination drives annually, ensuring that the vaccine reaches children at their doorsteps. Complementing these efforts, the Expanded Program on Immunization offers free vaccinations against 12 childhood diseases at health facilities across the country.

Despite these robust initiatives, the persistent vaccine refusals pose a formidable barrier to achieving full immunization coverage. Health authorities remain deeply concerned about the implications of this hesitancy, which not only jeopardizes individual children but also threatens the broader public health landscape.

The battle against polio in Pakistan is not merely a medical endeavor but a complex socio-cultural challenge. It requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government bodies, health professionals, and community leaders, to address the root causes of vaccine hesitancy and to build trust within communities.

As Pakistan grapples with this critical public health issue, the need for innovative strategies and sustained commitment to eradicate polio has never been more urgent. The stakes are high, and the path to a polio-free future demands unwavering resolve and collective action.