Balochistan Launches Nationwide Anti-Polio Campaign, UNICEF ComNet Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Children

Independent Report
ZHOB: A nationwide anti-polio vaccination drive is scheduled to commence on February 2, targeting thousands of children under five across Balochistan, including Zhob. The campaign forms part of Pakistan’s renewed efforts to eradicate polio and prevent permanent disability among children.
Preparations and community awareness initiatives are already underway. UNICEF-ComNet social mobiliser Abdul Malik, along with Najeebullah, a representative from a local community-based organization (CBO), has been conducting door-to-door visits in their union council, educating parents about the campaign and highlighting the importance of timely vaccination.
In addition to household outreach, mobilization teams are engaging tribal elders, religious leaders, elected representatives, and other influential community members to garner widespread support for the initiative. Abdul Malik explained, “These interactions are intended to build trust at the community level, correct misconceptions about the vaccine, and foster a shared sense of responsibility in the fight against polio.”
Local residents and social activists stressed that oral polio drops remain the most effective protection against lifelong disability. They noted that polio, a highly contagious viral disease, can result in irreversible paralysis if preventive measures are delayed, causing enduring physical, emotional, and economic burdens for affected families.
Health department officials, in coordination with community leaders, urged parents to ensure their children receive polio drops in every vaccination round, cooperate with frontline health workers, and disregard misinformation. Officials emphasized that eradicating polio is a collective national duty, not merely a government responsibility.
Throughout the campaign, ComNet staff will continue active engagement with communities in both households and public spaces to sustain awareness and encourage participation. Authorities highlighted that consistent community outreach is vital to ending polio permanently and securing a healthier, safer future for the next generation.