Pakistan’s Major Step Forward in Measles and Rubella Protection
A nationwide push that brought millions of children under safer healthcare
Introduction
Pakistan has successfully concluded one of its most extensive nationwide immunization efforts. The 2025 National Measles Rubella (MR) and OPV campaign vaccinated more than 33 million children, marking a significant milestone in strengthening disease prevention and public healthcare. According to the Ministry of National Health Services and the Federal Directorate of Immunization, the campaign crossed the 95% coverage mark nationwide.
How the Campaign Reached Millions
The immunization drive extended across all provinces and regions — Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad. School-based vaccination, community rounds and door-to-door mobilization helped ensure that children in both urban and remote areas received timely protection.
Teachers, local community leaders and religious scholars played a vital role in promoting vaccine awareness and helping teams reach high-risk or hard-to-access areas.
Strong Performance on the Ground
The Federal Directorate of Immunization reported that operational performance remained strong throughout the campaign. More than 284,000 vaccination sessions were closely monitored at federal, provincial and district levels.
Other key highlights include:
- 98% reporting accuracy achieved across all vaccination activities
- Continuous monitoring of session quality and field performance
- Effective coordination between federal and local health teams
The Sehat Tahaffuz Helpline 1166 also supported thousands of families, responding to over 3,000 calls related to the MR campaign. Any reported adverse events following immunization were promptly investigated under national safety guidelines.
National Effort and Global Support
The Ministry recognized the dedication of thousands of vaccinators, supervisors, social mobilizers, teachers and volunteers who ensured smooth field operations. Support from UNICEF, WHO, Gavi and multiple civil society organizations strengthened logistics, cold chain systems and real-time monitoring.
Parents and caregivers across the country were also appreciated for prioritizing their children’s health and making the campaign a national success.
What’s Next?
Pakistan is now preparing for its final nationwide polio vaccination campaign of the year, scheduled from December 15 to 21. The drive aims to reach more than 45 million children and reinforce the country’s efforts to eliminate polio.
Conclusion
With the successful conclusion of the 2025 measles rubella campaign, Pakistan has taken a significant step toward eliminating measles, controlling rubella and strengthening long-term disease prevention. The campaign showcases the country’s strong commitment to public healthcare and the protection of millions of children nationwide.
Source: Health Matters Pakistan
