Punjab has recorded no polio cases so far this year, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, as she urged parents, health workers and communities to back vaccination efforts on World Polio Day.
In a special message marking the occasion, the chief minister described frontline polio workers as national heroes and said collective action was essential to protect children and build a healthier society.
Vaccine Called Safe and Effective
Maryam Nawaz said the polio vaccine is safe and effective, warning that refusing immunisation places a child’s health and future at risk. She called on parents to ensure every child under five receives two drops of the vaccine during each campaign.
She credited the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre and the Health Department for sustained efforts to eradicate the disease, with regular immunisation drives continuing across Lahore and other districts.
More Than 10 Million Children Immunised
According to the chief minister, more than 10 million children under five have received polio drops across 13 high-risk districts. Environmental samples are also being tested regularly across the province to monitor for possible spread of the virus.
November Campaign Scheduled
Preparations have been completed for a sub-national polio vaccination campaign set to run from November 2 to 8, 2026, in selected districts of Punjab alongside the nationwide initiative. District health management teams, World Health Organization representatives and local administrations will help oversee the drive.
Maryam Nawaz cautioned that continued vigilance is necessary to keep the virus from returning, and called on parents, medical personnel, vaccination teams and the public to work together to shield children from lifelong disability and secure a healthier future for the next generation.
