Why Are Families Still Refusing Polio Vaccination in Islamabad?

APP

Islamabad: The ongoing anti-polio campaign in Islamabad has vaccinated over 447,000 children within the first five days, achieving 97 percent of its target, officials confirmed on Thursday.

The progress was reviewed in a meeting chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) East Mehreen Baloch, attended by assistant commissioners and representatives of the health department.

According to the briefing, polio teams have administered drops to 447,747 children so far. The meeting also addressed the issue of refusals—instances where families declined to vaccinate their children—and discussed strategies to overcome resistance and build public trust in the vaccination effort.

Ensuring the safety of polio workers and evaluating their daily performance were also key points of discussion. ADC East Mehreen Baloch emphasized the need for public cooperation to ensure that every child in the capital is vaccinated.

“Polio teams are going door-to-door and are also stationed at schools, parks, and bus terminals to ensure no child is missed,” she said. “We urge parents to support this vital campaign by allowing their children to be vaccinated. Together, we can secure a polio-free future for our children.”

The health department is closely monitoring the campaign and responding to challenges as they arise. With strong coordination between the district administration, health officials, and on-ground teams, the drive continues to progress effectively.

Authorities have also reinforced safety measures for polio workers, who are working in both residential neighborhoods and high-traffic public areas across the city.

The campaign is expected to achieve full coverage in the coming days with sustained community engagement and official support.