Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Health, Dr. Asif Khan, has urged parents not to pay heed to misinformation and rumours regarding polio vaccination.
He emphasized that the fractional Inactivated Polio Vaccine (fIPV) being administered to children aged 4 months to 15 years in 122 union councils of Lahore is a booster dose aimed at strengthening immunity in response to the continued circulation of the virus.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Asif Khan highlighted that the polio vaccine is already part of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). He explained that the additional fractional dose is being provided as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce immunity levels among children in high-risk areas.
He stressed the need for effective information management to counter negative propaganda and to ensure that parents receive accurate guidance about the safety and importance of vaccination.
Dr. Asif noted that there are over 4,500 schools located across the targeted union councils and acknowledged potential challenges in reaching every school despite the department’s extensive efforts to sensitize parents about the campaign.
Agreeing with recommendations from private school representatives and the CEO Education, Dr. Asif announced that senior doctors will visit selected schools on Friday to engage with parents, address concerns, and provide clarity on the vaccination process.
