Health minister launches fIPV drive in 85 Karachi UCs

KARACHI: Launching the fractional Inactivated Polio Vaccine (fIPV) campaign targeting 85 Union Councils (UCs) across Karachi, Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho underscored the importance of vaccinating children with both the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and fIPV to prevent polio resulting in permanent disability.

Running from August 15 to 25, 2024, the campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 1,037,000 children aged four months to five years with the fIPV, using jet injector technology. During the drive, OPV drops will also be administered to 1.1 million children under the age of five.

Dr. Azra, accompanied by Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Coordinator Irshad Sodhar, Rotary International Trustee Aziz Memon, and other officials, called on community leaders to support vaccinators in reaching every child.

Pakistan remains one of the few countries where polio is still endemic, with 14 cases reported nationwide this year, including two in Sindh. This campaign is a crucial step in combating the virus, particularly in high-risk areas of Karachi.

The minister highlighted the campaign's significance in densely populated urban areas, saying that the combination of fIPV and OPV is essential for comprehensive protection against poliovirus.

Supported by around 3,800 trained workers and 16,000 frontline health workers, the campaign is well-resourced. EOC officials, including Irshad Sodhar, praised the efforts of the chief minister, chief secretary, and local officials in ensuring the campaign's success.

Urging the parents and guardians to bring their children to designated points for vaccination, the minister said that those who miss the vaccinations can contact the Sehat Tahaffuz Helpline at 1166 or the 24/7 WhatsApp Helpline at 0346-7776546.

She also asked the community leaders and media to help disseminate information and support the campaign.

The launch of the campaign coincides with Independence Day, symbolizing a commitment to securing a healthier future for the children, she adds.