Bridging the Immunization Gap: Gilgit-Baltistan Launches Big Catch-Up Round-II
Gilgit, February 18 – The Provincial Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) Gilgit-Baltistan, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has launched the second round of the Big Catch-Up (BCU) campaign. This phase prioritizes low-performing and high-risk union councils (UCs), with a special focus on areas vulnerable to measles virus circulation. The initiative aims to strengthen herd immunity and ensure that no child is left behind in the region’s immunization efforts.
The inauguration ceremony for Big Catch-Up Round-II was held at the Gilgit-Baltistan Secretariat with the support of UNICEF. The event was presided over by the Additional Chief Secretary (Retd.) Capt. Mushtaq Ahmed, along with Secretary Health GB, Mr. Asif Ullah Khan; Secretary Information GB, Mr. Zamir Abbas; Secretary Tourism, Mr. Farid Secretary Education. Several senior officials from the GB Secretariat and Health Department also attended, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening immunization services in the region.
Dr. Syed Sadiq Shah, Director EPI GB, welcomed the distinguished guests and provided an overview of the EPI program and the objectives of BCU Round-II. He highlighted the successes of the previous round and emphasized the importance of reaching every unvaccinated child to ensure comprehensive immunization coverage across the region.
Speaking at the event, Additional Chief Secretary Capt. (Retd.) Mushtaq Ahmed commended the efforts of the EPI team and the Health Department in their mission to address missed opportunities for the last five years focusing on low-performing and high-risk Union Councils. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting immunization initiatives and ensuring vaccine accessibility for all children in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Mr. Asif Ullah Khan Secretary of Health GB, stated that the Health Department of Gilgit-Baltistan is fully committed to ensuring the complete vaccination of children under five. He urged all parents and caregivers to cooperate with health teams and get their children vaccinated. He also extended his appreciation to all partner organizations, especially WHO and UNICEF, for their continuous support of the EPI program in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Big Catch-Up Campaign is part of a global initiative to address immunization gaps caused by disruptions in essential immunization services. With a strong emphasis on outreach, awareness, and collaboration with healthcare providers, BCU Round II aims to strengthen vaccine coverage and protect children from life-threatening diseases.
Officials stressed the importance of community participation in the campaign and urged parents to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccinations.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work collectively toward achieving universal immunization coverage, ensuring that no child is left behind.
