651,000 Zero-Dose Children: PMA Demands Full Audit of EPI Funds

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has raised alarm over more than 651,000 children across the country who have not received a single routine vaccination, labeling them as “zero-dose” cases. The association warns that the growing gap in immunization coverage could trigger outbreaks of preventable diseases, including measles, polio, and tuberculosis.

In a strongly worded statement, the PMA called for an immediate and complete audit of funds allocated to the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). It demanded accountability for any potential misuse or corruption, stressing that transparency in the vaccination system is essential to protect children’s health.

The PMA highlighted that weaknesses in the routine immunization system have become a major risk factor for child mortality. It urged authorities to identify all zero-dose children and vaccinate them without delay. The association also emphasized that routine immunization services must be strengthened, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access.

Frontline health workers, according to the PMA, are critical to reaching remote communities but need better support. The association called for timely salaries, proper training, and adequate protection for vaccination teams to improve the program’s performance.

The medical body reiterated that vaccination coverage should be a national priority, warning that failure to act could put millions of children at risk and overwhelm the public health system.

Article source: minutemirror.com.pk | Image credit: Dawn