More than 651,000 children in Pakistan miss routine vaccinations, PMA says

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has expressed concern over the large number of children in Pakistan who remain completely deprived of routine immunization, warning that weaknesses in the vaccination system pose a serious threat to children’s health and could increase the spread of preventable diseases.

According to the PMA, approximately 651,000 children in the country have not received any routine childhood vaccinations. These children are categorized as “zero-dose” children, meaning they have not received even the first dose of essential vaccines included in the national immunization program.

The medical association stated that gaps and weaknesses within the routine immunization system have become a major risk factor for children’s lives. It warned that the growing number of children without access to vaccines could lead to an increase in outbreaks of diseases that can otherwise be prevented through timely immunization.

The PMA emphasized that ensuring vaccination coverage for all children should be treated as a national priority. It called on authorities to take immediate steps to identify the 651,000 zero-dose children and provide them with the required vaccines without delay.

The association also demanded a complete audit of the funds allocated for the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). It called for accountability regarding any possible misuse of resources or corruption, stating that transparency in the vaccination system is essential for protecting children’s health.

The PMA highlighted that a strong and effective immunization system is crucial for preventing diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, and other vaccine-preventable illnesses. It stressed that failure to improve vaccination coverage could put millions of children at risk and create challenges for public health authorities.

The association further stated that routine immunization services should be strengthened across the country, particularly in areas where healthcare access remains limited. It urged the government to improve monitoring systems, ensure the availability of vaccines, and make vaccination services more accessible to families.

The PMA also called for better support for frontline healthcare workers involved in immunization campaigns. According to the association, medical staff and vaccination teams should receive timely salaries, proper training, and adequate protection so they can perform their duties effectively.

Healthcare workers play a vital role in reaching children in remote and underserved communities, where challenges such as limited healthcare facilities, misinformation, and lack of awareness often affect vaccination rates. The PMA stressed that supporting these workers is essential for improving the overall performance of immunization programs.

The medical body reiterated that routine vaccination should not only be viewed as a healthcare issue but also as an important component of national security. A healthy population, particularly protected children, contributes to the country’s long-term social and economic development.

The PMA urged government institutions, healthcare organizations, and communities to work together to ensure that no child remains unprotected from preventable diseases. It stated that immediate action is needed to close vaccination gaps and strengthen Pakistan’s immunization system.

The warning from the Pakistan Medical Association highlights ongoing challenges in achieving full vaccination coverage and emphasizes the need for sustained efforts, accountability, and investment in public health programs to safeguard children across the country.