On the outskirts of Quetta, a two-year-old boy named Ayaan smiles with joy as he holds his mother’s hand, eyes fixed on a vibrant swing. To health workers and local leaders in Balochistan, the swing is much more than a children’s amusement; it symbolizes progress and hope in the battle against polio.
The Immunity Express initiative, part of Pakistan’s broader Polio Eradication Program, is tackling the disease in high-risk areas like Quetta through innovative approaches. By integrating camel rides, swings, and other child-friendly activities, the program fosters a welcoming environment that encourages families to vaccinate their children against polio. Alongside these creative methods, the initiative also strengthens community engagement to ensure vaccines reach the most vulnerable children.
Read more: Over 2.6 million children in Balochistan to receive polio drops
Balochistan, historically a hotspot for poliovirus, is witnessing remarkable progress in 2025. No cases of wild poliovirus have been recorded as of July, and the virus’s presence in environmental samples has significantly dropped. According to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), only 17% of environmental samples tested positive in June, down from previous years. Within the high-risk Quetta Block, this figure fell to just 14%–marking the lowest detection rate in over 18 months.
“This progress reflects the resilience and dedication of everyone involved, from health workers to community leaders,” stated Inamul Haq, Coordinator of the EOC in Balochistan.
The initiative’s success is rooted in a coordinated effort that involves all levels of the community. Religious leaders promote vaccination through sermons and gatherings, while media campaigns work to dispel misinformation. Development partners contribute essential technical and logistical support, and government leadership ensures campaigns are well-planned, funded, and thoroughly monitored.
Immunity Express and other outreach programs, such as mobilizer initiatives and journalist engagement sessions, have been vital in boosting vaccine acceptance, particularly in communities that were once hesitant about immunization.
While these advancements are encouraging, health officials caution against complacency. “Environmental sample positivity is declining, and that gives us hope,” said Mr. Haq. “But the virus still lurks. The moment we become complacent, it will strike again.”
For now, Ayaan’s laughter on the swing serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities, organizations, and governments unite against polio. Though the fight continues, the progress in Quetta offers a vision of a polio-free future.
