Polio Eradication: Current Status and Challenges in Pakistan

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Poliomyelitis (Polio) is a debilitating illness and a preventable cause of mortality and morbidity. It affects mainly children and can be prevented by the proper use of vaccine. Global Polio Eradication Initiative was successful in eradicating this deadly illness globally except in three countries i.e. Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria. A literature review was carried out to identify available studies relating to socioeconomic obstacles in eradication of polio in Pakistan. “Pubmed”, “Science Direct”, “Google Scholar” and “Cochrane Library”, were the search engines utilized to review the literature. Present study discusses facts about socioeconomic barriers related to poor or failed vaccination among children in Pakistan against Polio. We suggest to raise basic awareness in people regarding polio vaccination and defensive approaches to overcome the major factors responsible for non-vaccination of children in Pakistan.