AS the world observes World Immunization Week from April 24 to 30, the powerful message for this year, “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible,” serves as a poignant reminder that vaccines are not a privilege, but a fundamental human right.
Over the last five decades, vaccination has saved over 154 million lives globally—an average of six lives every minute.
It has played a significant role in reducing infant mortality and in eradicating diseases like smallpox.
However, for countries like Pakistan, reaching the goal of universal immunization remains an ongoing challenge.
Despite the global progress in vaccine access and coverage, Pakistan still faces significant challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Limited healthcare infrastructure, lack of awareness and logistical issues such as cold chain deficiencies create barriers to effective immunization.
Furthermore, cultural resistance, misinformation and security threats to health workers in certain regions hinder the widespread acceptance and distribution of vaccines.
These obstacles require a concerted effort from both the government and community leaders to overcome, ensuring that vaccines reach every corner of the country.
Since its inception in 1978, Pakistan’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) has achieved remarkable progress.
The program has expanded its coverage to twelve vaccine- preventable diseases (VPDs), including tuberculosis (BCG), polio, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), measles, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus, typhoid and rubella.
Among these, efforts to eradicate polio have made notable strides, drastically reducing the number of cases.
Furthermore, technological advancements like the EVaccs system in Punjab and the Zindagi Mehfooz app in Sindh have greatly enhanced vaccine monitoring and data tracking, ensuring better coverage and accountability.
Looking ahead, 2025 marks a significant milestone with the introduction of the HPV vaccine for girls aged 9–14 across various regions of Pakistan, including Punjab, Sindh, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
This is a critical step in the battle against cervical cancer and its success will heavily depend on robust community engagement, effective awareness campaigns and the active involvement of trusted local figures such as teachers, religious leaders and healthcare workers.
To improve routine immunization in Pakistan, a comprehensive, multifaceted approach is essential.
This includes bolstering cold chain systems, expanding mobile vaccination outreach, training healthcare workers and enforcing policies like mandatory vaccination for school entry.
Integrating vaccination services with local clinics and schools and increasing outreach in underserved areas will be key to improving accessibility.
Additionally, building trust in vaccines through the involvement of community leaders and combating misinformation using digital tools and local media will help overcome vaccine hesitancy.
Strong government investment, continued support from global partners like Gavi and a focus on restoring public trust are all crucial for the successful EPI program.
Vaccines are not just a health intervention; they are a symbol of hope and progress.
As we observe World Immunization Week, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting every individual, community and child in Pakistan from preventable diseases.
The goal of “Immunization for All” is not just an ideal; it is a pledge that we must uphold—together, as a united society working toward a healthier future for all.
—The writer holds a PhD and serves as a Public Health Consultant. (attaurrehman1987@yahoo.com)
