Global Vaccination Drive Stalls While Pakistan Registers Second‑Highest Zero‑Dose Child Count in South Asia

ISLAMABAD/GENEVA – A new international health report reveals a troubling slowdown in routine immunisation efforts across the globe, with Pakistan now recording the second-highest number of children who have yet to receive even one dose of key vaccines in South Asia.

Health monitoring agencies warn that the momentum gained in the decade before the COVID-19 pandemic has been lost. Disruption to vaccination campaigns, combined with logistical challenges and vaccine hesitancy, has left millions of children at risk of preventable diseases.

Key Findings:

• Pakistan’s Shortfall: The country is now second only to Afghanistan in South Asia for children under five who missed their initial doses of vaccines against measles, polio, and other diseases.
  
• Stagnant Global Progress: Worldwide, routine immunisation coverage has plateaued at lower levels, putting additional strain on already stretched public health systems.
  
• At-Risk Communities: Rural and underprivileged urban areas have been hardest hit—factors include vaccine access limitations, awareness gaps, and reduced outreach during lockdowns.
  

Health experts emphasize that these disruptions may spark a resurgence in diseases like measles, pertussis, and polio, reversing years of progress.

Pakistan’s Response:

• A major catch-up campaign targeting zero-dose children in underserved districts is scheduled this autumn.
  
• Immunisation drives will integrate into other community healthcare activities including maternal care programmes to maximise reach.
  
• The government is coordinating with development partners to improve vaccine supply chains, boost funding for cold storage, and deploy mobile units in remote areas.
  

Public health leaders argue that achieving sustainable coverage will require:

1. Sustained outreach and awareness in resistant communities
   
2. Making vaccines available through local clinics and mobile teams
   
3. Involving influential local figures—like religious leaders and community elders—to boost confidence
   

The Way Forward:

Officials warn that unless preventive action begins now, Pakistan risks outbreaks that could reverse gains made over the past two decades. Experts believe the country still has a chance to close the immunisation gap, but time is running out.

This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.