Lahore: Director of Health Services Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) Punjab Dr. Samra Khurram has emphasized the importance of World Immunization Week, which is observed from Thursday to Wednesday to raise awareness about vaccinating children against 12 life-threatening diseases.

According to Radio Pakistan, Dr. Samra Khurram, in an interview with correspondent Qasim Bukhari, highlighted this year’s theme, “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible.” This theme underscores the universal right of every child to access vaccines. She mentioned that Pakistan’s Expanded Program on Immunization, initiated in 1978, initially focused on six diseases but now provides free protection against 12 diseases, including polio, measles, hepatitis B, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Dr. Samra detailed that the full immunization schedule spans from birth to 18 months and requires seven visits to health centers. She urged parents to ensure their children’s vaccination schedules are completed on time and to visit nearby centers for any missed doses. Although Punjab currently leads the country in immunization coverage, she emphasized the ongoing goal of achieving 100 percent immunization.

To assist citizens further, Dr. Samra mentioned that more information is available through the Health Department’s helpline at 1033.