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Parents refusing the polio vaccine in Karachi have become a growing concern, as rejection cases continue to increase during the government’s ongoing anti-polio campaign across Karachi.
According to the Emergency Operation Center (EOC), around 37,711 parents declined polio drops for their children during campaign in May, which is slightly higher than the 37,360 refusals recorded in April.
The EOC reports highest refusal cases were recorded in District East, where 9,433 parents did not allow vaccination to their children; this was also the most affected area in the city last month.
Other major districts with significant refusal numbers included Central with 7,141 cases, Keamari with 7,111, Malir with 4,606, and Korangi where 3,453 parents refused vaccination.
The South District reported 3,145 rejection cases, while the West District had the lowest 2,922 cases.
Officials stated that the polio eradication drive continues to face resistance in many urban neighborhoods, especially in union councils marked as high-risk zones for the virus.
The EOC emphasized that the refusal rate remains a major hurdle in completely eliminating polio. Ongoing cooperation from parents is essential to protect children and community health.
Health officials believe that the main reasons behind refusals are misconceptions, misinformation, and a lack of awareness among certain communities about the importance and safety of the vaccine.
