Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has issued a stark warning about Pakistan's alarmingly low child vaccination rates, stating that millions of unvaccinated children could trigger a massive public health emergency in the coming years.
Minister's Grave Warning on Immunization
Speaking at Thursday's ceremony for handing over 118 mobile vaccination vans to provincial authorities at the Federal Directorate of Immunization, Minister Kamal expressed deep concern about the current situation. He emphasized that improving immunization coverage represents an urgent national priority that requires immediate attention.
The minister detailed how fully vaccinated children gain protection against 13 serious diseases, providing them with a healthy start in life. He made a direct appeal to parents across Pakistan, urging them to ensure their children receive complete vaccination schedules without delay.
Preventing Healthcare Collapse and Poverty
Minister Kamal painted a grim picture of what could happen if vaccination rates don't improve significantly. Hospitals could soon be overwhelmed with preventable illnesses if millions of children remain unvaccinated, putting immense strain on the country's healthcare infrastructure.
In a startling revelation, the health minister shared that approximately 13 million Pakistanis have fallen below the poverty line due to healthcare expenses. He stressed that vaccination serves as a dual-purpose solution, stating that "vaccination is an effective way to prevent both disease and poverty."
The minister referenced how even advanced nations like the United States and China experienced severe healthcare system strain during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring why prevention through vaccination proves far more effective than treatment.
Mobile Vans Target Remote Areas
The newly deployed 118 mobile vaccination vans will specifically target children in remote and underserved regions who face immunization barriers due to geographical isolation or financial constraints. These vehicles will help bridge the accessibility gap that has long plagued vaccination efforts in hard-to-reach communities.
Minister Kamal emphasized that government efforts alone cannot transform the system. He called for active cooperation from parents and communities, noting that "community participation is crucial for building a healthy society."
The government has committed to reducing public hardship through honest and dedicated efforts. As part of this commitment, Minister Kamal recommended increasing mobile vaccination vans in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir from one to five each to better address local healthcare needs.
