Karachi is once again preparing for a major battle against polio as health officials launch a new vaccination campaign to protect thousands of children across the city. While experts say the city has made encouraging progress in recent years, they believe rumours and false information are still slowing down the mission to completely wipe out the virus.
The new polio booster campaign will begin on May 12 and continue until May 25 in 89 high-risk areas of Karachi. During this time, health workers will visit communities to give free booster doses to children up to 10 years old. Officials say the extra dose will help strengthen children’s immunity and stop the virus from spreading further.
The announcement was made during a media briefing held at the Karachi Press Club, where doctors, health experts, journalists, and members of the Sindh Polio Eradication Programme gathered to discuss the campaign and raise awareness among the public.
Speaking at the event, Sindh EOC Coordinator Sheheryar Memon said Karachi is moving closer to becoming polio-free, but misinformation about vaccines continues to create fear among some parents. He explained that many families still hesitate because of rumours shared on social media or through word of mouth, even though doctors have repeatedly confirmed that the vaccine is safe.
To send a strong message of trust and confidence, Sheheryar Memon and several journalists attending the event publicly received the polio booster dose themselves. Officials hoped this simple step would encourage parents to feel more comfortable about vaccinating their children.
Health experts at the briefing explained that booster doses are especially important for children living in areas where the virus is still active. According to doctors, some children need extra protection because of repeated exposure to the virus in crowded and high-risk communities.
Dr. Sandeep, who attended the session, urged parents not to ignore the campaign. He said the vaccine is completely free, safe, and necessary for every child. He also reminded families that polio can cause lifelong disability, but it can easily be prevented through timely vaccination.
Although global polio cases have dropped sharply over the years, Karachi is still considered a sensitive area due to population movement and the continued presence of the virus in some neighborhoods. Health officials believe stronger vaccination efforts are needed to fully eliminate the disease from the city.
Officials also shared that frontline health workers have received special training before the campaign. They have been trained not only in safe vaccine administration but also in how to speak respectfully with families and answer their concerns patiently.
The event ended with a united message for the public. Health officials, doctors, and community leaders appealed to parents to support the campaign and help protect every child from the dangers of polio.
They said every child who receives the vaccine brings Karachi and Pakistan one step closer to a healthier and polio-free future.
