- WHO Representative Dr. Luo Dapeng hails historic progress and underscores shared commitment to finishing the job.
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif marked World Polio Day by pledging renewed commitment and focus to eradicate polio; urging parents to vaccinate children against the lifelong paralytic disease in every campaign
ISLAMABAD, October 25, 2025 – In a powerful display of national resolve, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today marked World Polio Day by celebrating the nation’s more than 400,000 polio vaccinators and affirming the country’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the poliovirus.
During a ceremony at the PM’s House, Prime Minister Sharif paid tribute to the frontline workers who are protecting over 45 million children annually. He was joined by Dr. Luo Dapeng, Head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Mission in Pakistan, who emphasized the critical partnership between the Government of Pakistan and global health agencies in this final push for eradication.
“The services of polio workers reflect the very best of Pakistan’s strength and compassion. They are the true heroes of our nation, whose efforts continue to safeguard the health and dignity of our children,” stated Prime Minister Sharif. “Ending polio is not just a public health goal; it is a national responsibility that must be achieved without fail.”
The data underscores the remarkable success of Pakistan’s efforts. Since 1994, the country has reduced polio cases by an extraordinary 99.6%—from an estimated 20,000 annual cases to just 74 in 2024, with 30 reported so far this year. This progress is a direct result of the Government’s leadership and the dedication of frontline workers supported by the Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) and its partners.
Dr. Luo Dapeng: A Strategic Partner in the Final Mile
Dr. Luo Dapeng, representing WHO and the global polio eradication partnership, commended the historic achievement and highlighted the collaborative path forward.
“The progress we see in Pakistan today is a testament to what can be achieved through determined national leadership and the immense courage of every vaccinator who goes door-to-door,” said Dr. Luo. “WHO stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Government of Pakistan as we navigate this critical last phase. Our shared focus is on reaching every last child, strengthening surveillance, and building resilient health systems to ensure a polio-free future.”
As the chief guest, the Prime Minister awarded shields to 14 polio workers, nominated by their respective provinces and regions, in recognition of their exceptional service. These workers represent an army of over 400,000 individuals, 60% of whom are women, who deliver the lifesaving vaccine directly to families during every national campaign.
Despite the significant progress, both leaders underlined the urgency of the final challenge. Prime Minister Sharif called on all parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the essential vaccine during every campaign.
“Even a single case of polio means that our work is not yet done,” the Prime Minister concluded, a sentiment echoed by Dr. Luo, who added, “The world is watching, and Pakistan is poised to make history. Together, we can consign polio to the past.”
About the Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative:
The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative is a collaborative effort led by the Government of Pakistan, with key support from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and other global partners. Its mission is to interrupt the transmission of wild poliovirus and achieve a polio-free Pakistan.
BY: The Times Union
