LAHORE: Punjab has claimed significant progress in its fight against polio, with a substantial reduction in poliovirus circulation, improved campaign performance and stronger vaccination coverage across the province.

However, authorities have cautioned that continued vigilance and collective action remain essential to achieve the ultimate goal of a polio-free Punjab.

Speaking at a media engagement session on polio eradication, Ms Uzma Kardar, Chief Minister’s Focal Person on Polio and Member of the Punjab Assembly, highlighted the province’s recent achievements while emphasising the need to sustain momentum.

“Protecting every child from polio remains one of the Government of Punjab’s highest public health priorities. While we have made encouraging progress, the threat has not disappeared. We must continue our efforts until every child is protected and poliovirus transmission is interrupted permanently,” said Ms Kardar.

She noted that environmental surveillance data have shown a marked decline in poliovirus detections compared to previous years, reflecting improvements in campaign quality, surveillance systems and vaccination outreach activities.

Ms Kardar particularly highlighted the progress achieved in Lahore, historically considered one of the province’s most challenging districts due to its large population, high mobility, migrant communities and underserved urban settlements.

“Lahore’s turnaround demonstrates what can be achieved through strong political commitment, evidence-based planning and rigorous implementation. Focused interventions in high-risk union councils, enhanced monitoring, stronger accountability and improved outreach to mobile and migrant populations have contributed to significant improvements in campaign quality and reductions in missed children,” she said.

She added that community engagement efforts have also strengthened trust and acceptance of vaccination services, helping improve household coverage across high-risk areas.

Despite these gains, Ms Kardar warned against complacency. “Even a small number of missed children can allow the virus to persist and spread. The current high transmission season requires all stakeholders to remain alert and committed to reaching every child,” she said.

Addressing the session, Punjab Assembly Chief Whip Rana Muhammad Arshad of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), praised the coordinated efforts of health authorities, district administrations, development partners and frontline workers in advancing the province’s eradication efforts.

“Punjab is closer than ever to achieving a polio-free future. The reduction in virus circulation and the approximately 41 percent decline in missed children clusters demonstrate the impact of coordinated action, data-driven planning and strong government oversight,” said Mr Arshad.

He appreciated the role of frontline workers in safeguarding children against polio.

Mr Arshad noted that particular emphasis has been placed on identifying and vaccinating children among mobile and migrant populations.

The speakers also acknowledged the vital role of the media in supporting eradication efforts through accurate reporting, public awareness and countering misinformation about vaccines.

Calling for sustained collective action, they urged government institutions, elected representatives, civil society organisations, religious leaders, media professionals and communities to continue working together to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated.

Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2026