WHILE the absence of new polio cases since Feb 10 is welcome news, this pause in transmission must not breed complacency. With a nationwide campaign set to officially kick off today, the focus must be on deepening oversight, not declaring premature victory. Pakistan is still one of only two countries where polio is endemic. Though current trends are encouraging, with six cases reported this year so far, 2024 saw 74 cases, and environmental surveillance continues to detect traces of the virus. The virus has not been eliminated — it is merely silent. Any gaps in coverage or oversight now could allow it to re-emerge with devastating consequences.

As 415,000 workers fan out to vaccinate 45.4m children, it is imperative that the system incentivises honesty over performance. Workers must be under no pressure — financial or otherwise — to manipulate numbers to show inflated coverage. The government’s announcement of third-party validation from April 28 to 30 is a step in the right direction, but rigorous oversight must continue year-round. Digital tracking of vaccine cold chains must also be extended across all districts. Moreover, polio teams must be empowered to report every refusal without fear of reprimand. These refusals are not necessarily failures — they can be turned into opportunities to engage and educate. Respectful, data-driven dialogue with hesitant families is key. Supervisors must ensure follow-ups and make multiple visits where needed. In high-risk areas such as Karachi, Larkana, and Quetta, no household must be overlooked. The prime minister’s directives and provincial efforts signal high-level commitment. But that commitment must trickle down to daily implementation. Even one child missed is a risk to all children — the virus exploits the smallest cracks in the system. Pakistan has come close to eradication before, only to see the virus return. This time, let every number be verified, every refusal be noted, and every child be protected. There are no shortcuts to eradication. We must leave no stone unturned.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2025