Pakistan vaccinates over 160 million children in 5 decades WHO

As World Immunisation Week approaches, Pakistan’s public health achievements have been highlighted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which reports that the country has protected more than 160 million children and 130 million mothers through life-saving vaccines since the launch of its Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) in 1978. The programme was introduced in collaboration with WHO and international partners to combat vaccine-preventable diseases.

According to WHO, Pakistan has made significant progress in disease prevention over the decades. The country successfully eradicated smallpox in 1976 and has since prevented an estimated 2.6 million child deaths through immunisation efforts. Vaccination campaigns have also contributed to a 99.8% reduction in paralytic polio cases since 1994, marking one of the most important public health gains in the country’s history.

The organization also confirmed that Pakistan has achieved WHO certification for the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in several regions, including Punjab, Sindh, Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Gilgit-Baltistan. As a result, around 80% of the population now lives in areas where neonatal tetanus is no longer considered a public health threat.

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WHO estimates that EPI prevents up to 17% of all childhood deaths in Pakistan, making immunisation one of the most cost-effective health interventions in the country. It also highlights that vaccines have prevented millions of cases of illness, disability, and hospitalisation over the past several decades.

WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng praised frontline health workers, vaccinators, and partner organizations, stating that scientific evidence clearly shows vaccines save lives and protect children from deadly diseases. He emphasized the importance of basing health decisions on science rather than misinformation or fear.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s immunisation programmes, including routine vaccination efforts and nationwide campaigns aimed at ensuring no child or mother is left unprotected.