Pakistan’s polio eradication authorities have launched a campaign targeting approximately 24 million children in 97 high-risk districts, with vaccinations scheduled for November 2 to 8, 2026. Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal inaugurated the initiative at the National Emergency Operations Centre, according to a report published by Dawn on October 31.
Who will be vaccinated?
The campaign aims to reach eligible children under five in the selected districts. Pakistan’s Polio Eradication Initiative said more than 200,000 frontline workers would be mobilised. It is the fifth large-scale vaccination campaign of 2026 and the third sub-national drive, rather than a new nationwide vaccination programme covering every district.
Why is Afghanistan relevant?
Officials said activities would be conducted simultaneously in Pakistan and Afghanistan with cross-border coordination. The reporting did not give a separate target number for the campaign in Afghanistan, so Pakistan's figure of 24 million should not be applied to both countries combined.
What remains the concern?
The health minister identified southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a particular challenge because of transmission risks and obstacles to access. According to the report, Pakistan had recorded seven polio cases so far in 2026, compared with 31 in 2025. These are reported figures as of the announcement, not a forecast of the final annual total.
Officials urged parents and caregivers to cooperate with vaccination teams. The oral polio vaccine is intended to prevent the paralytic disease; this article reports the government's schedule and does not replace advice from local healthcare authorities.