KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has emphasized that the eradication of polio is essential for maintaining the physical health of children, asserting that no negligence will be tolerated until the virus is completely eliminated. According to the first-day report of the anti-polio campaign presented to the CM, Sindh achieved an overall household coverage of 92% and a recall coverage of 93%. However, more than 226,000 children missed their vaccinations on the very first day.
The Challenges in Karachi The report highlighted significant challenges within Karachi, where the missed-children rate stands at 14.2%. While the city’s household coverage reached 87%, the refusal rate in certain districts remains alarming. Specifically, South Karachi recorded a refusal rate of 40% among parents.
Divisional Performance Overview Data from across the province shows varying levels of success. Shaheed Benazirabad division led with 95% coverage and a 5.7% missed-child rate, followed by Mirpurkhas and Sukkur divisions, both achieving 94% coverage with missed rates of 8.1% and 7% respectively. Larkana division recorded 93% coverage (7.7% missed), Hyderabad division saw 92% coverage (8.6% missed), while Karachi division remained at 87% coverage with the highest missed-child rate of 14.2%.
Action Plan & Public Appeal Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has directed health officials to conduct immediate targeted follow-ups in districts with high numbers of missed children. He further emphasized that ensuring full coverage is mandatory and no complacency will be accepted. “Protect your children from lifelong disability. If a polio team hasn’t reached your area, please call the helpline at 1166,” the CM urged parents.
