Pakistan has taken a significant step towards developing a local polio vaccine with the cooperation of UNICEF. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health, has sought UNICEF’s assistance in advancing this initiative.
In a recent meeting between Dr. Bharath and the Director of UNICEF’s Supply Chain Division, discussions were held on improving the health sector and polio vaccine procurement. UNICEF has committed to providing an uninterrupted supply of polio vaccines and supporting the local production of the vaccine in Pakistan.
Dr. Bharath emphasized that locally producing the vaccine will help meet domestic demand and alleviate pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting exports, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision.
This initiative comes as Pakistan faces a rise in polio cases. Along with Afghanistan, it remains one of the last two countries in the world still battling the poliovirus as of 2024.
