Polio Vaccination Now Mandatory for Birth, Death, and Marriage Certificates in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

K-P Government Implements Strict Policy to Boost Immunisation Rates and Eradicate Polio

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa [Pakistan], December 23: In a significant move to combat polio and improve vaccination coverage, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has announced a new policy requiring proof of polio vaccination for obtaining birth, death, and marriage certificates, according to The Express Tribune.

Policy Details and Implementation

Under the new directive:

• Families refusing to administer polio drops to their children will be denied access to essential documents, including birth, death, and marriage certificates.
• The policy primarily targets Peshawar and surrounding village councils to ensure maximum immunisation coverage.

A notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Peshawar has been circulated to the District Health Officer (DHO) and Medical Officer (MO), mandating strict compliance. Officials have been warned of disciplinary action for any breaches of the directive.

Government’s Objective

A spokesperson from the Health Department emphasized the policy’s importance, stating:

“This decision will ensure every child is immunised. We are taking all necessary steps to safeguard future generations from polio.”

Challenges in Polio Eradication

Despite years of extensive vaccination campaigns, Pakistan remains one of the few countries where polio is still endemic.

• Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy continue to pose challenges.
• The new policy aims to counter resistance and improve vaccination rates.

A Potential Model for Global Adoption

Health experts and organisations are closely monitoring the initiative, considering it a potential blueprint for other regions facing similar vaccination challenges.

By linking vital document issuance with vaccination compliance, the K-P government aims to strengthen its immunisation infrastructure and accelerate efforts to make the province polio-free.