Sindh to Begin Another Anti-Polio Campaign on Feb 2
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting of the Provincial Polio Task Force to review preparations for the upcoming anti-polio campaign scheduled from 2 to 8 February 2026 and reiterated the Sindh government’s commitment to eliminating polio from the province.
The campaign aims to vaccinate 10.5 million people, including 8.9 million children under five, across 30 districts and 1,490 union councils. More than 80,000 frontline workers will be deployed, supported by over 21,000 law enforcement personnel. The meeting reviewed epidemiological data showing zero polio cases so far in 2026 in both Pakistan and Sindh, though environmental surveillance confirms the virus is still present in several areas.
The Chief Minister warned against complacency and stressed that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect children, particularly given population movement. He directed district administrations to ensure no child is missed and called on parents and the media to actively support polio awareness efforts.
Pakistan currently remains one of only two countries in the world, alongside Afghanistan, where polio is still endemic. While case numbers have significantly declined, the Chief Minister noted that continued vigilance is essential to improve Pakistan’s standing in global polio eradication efforts and ultimately achieve a polio-free status.
The meeting concluded with confidence that strengthened microplanning, enhanced monitoring, digital and mass media outreach, and strong collaboration with partners such as WHO, UNICEF, Rotary International, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will keep Sindh on track toward eradicating polio.
