Health officials have raised concern as thousands of parents in Karachi a city in Pakistan continue to refuse polio vaccination for their children. According to the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC), 37,711 parents rejected polio vaccination during the May 2025 campaign. This marks a slight increase from April, when 37,360 parents declined the vaccine for their children.
District-wise data shows that the highest number of refusals came from Keamari with 17,011 cases, followed by East with 9,433, Central with 7,141, Malir with 4,606, Korangi with 3,453, South with 3,145, and West with 2,922 refusals.
Officials say the ongoing refusal to participate in anti-polio drives poses a serious challenge to the goal of eradicating the virus. They stress the need for consistent support from parents and guardians to keep children protected.
Moreover, the EOC pointed out that lack of awareness and widespread misconceptions are the major reasons behind parents’ reluctance. Special focus is now being placed on high-risk union councils to improve vaccination coverage.
Health authorities are urging communities to cooperate and recognize the importance of the vaccine. Without collective action, they warn, Pakistan’s dream of a polio-free future could remain out of reach.
