The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has raised serious concerns over an estimated 651,000 children in Pakistan who have not received any routine vaccinations, warning that the immunization system’s gaps could trigger outbreaks of preventable diseases.
Described as “zero-dose” children, these kids have missed even the first dose of essential vaccines under the national immunization program. The PMA warned that the growing number of unvaccinated children increases the risk of measles, polio, tuberculosis, and other deadly illnesses.
Calling the situation a national emergency, the PMA urged authorities to immediately identify these children and provide them with vaccines. The association also demanded a complete audit of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) funds, citing the need for accountability and transparency to prevent resource misuse.
The PMA stressed that routine immunization services must be strengthened, especially in areas with limited healthcare access. It called for improved monitoring, vaccine availability, and better support for frontline healthcare workers, including timely salaries and proper training, to effectively reach remote communities.
The association emphasized that protecting children through vaccination should be a top national priority, warning that failure to act could reverse gains against preventable diseases and endanger millions.
Article source: minutemirror.com.pk | Image credit: CNN
