As a parent in Karachi, your child's safety comes first always.
So, when the polio team knocks or a school nurse calls your child for "2 boond zindagi ki," you naturally pause.
"Is this safe?"
"Is today the right time?"
"How often should I say yes?"
You're not wrong to ask. In fact, asking questions is a sign of a caring and informed parent.
Here are real questions parents ask with clear, data-backed answers you can trust.
Answer:
Yes, in most cases. Even if your child has a mild cold, cough, or low-grade fever, the polio drops are still safe.
However, if your child has diarrhea, the dose may be less effective, and a follow-up dose might be needed.
Tip: Let the vaccinator know if your child is unwell, especially if they have diarrhea or are vomiting.
Answer:
Multiple times. The polio vaccine is given repeatedly to ensure strong immunity in children under 5.
In cities like Karachi, where polio virus is still present in sewage, the frequency of doses increases based on risk.
Think of it like booster shots - more doses mean more protection.
Answer:
No serious side effects.
Some children may experience:
These are temporary and harmless. There is no link to paralysis, infertility, or chronic illness - those are false rumors.
In fact, millions of children around the world have taken polio drops safely for decades.
Answer:
If your child misses doses or their immune system is weak (due to malnutrition or illness), there's still a small risk.
That's why every single dose matters, especially in a city like Karachi where polio virus still circulates in some areas like:
Answer:
They are trained vaccinators working under the Government of Sindh, EPI, WHO, and UNICEF.
Every real team should have:
Always ask to see their ID if you're unsure.
Answer:
Because Karachi is a high-risk zone where the virus still hides in water systems and crowded areas.
When even a single child or sewage sample tests positive, the entire zone is covered with rapid campaigns to:
It's not a foreign agenda - it's a protective measure for your child's future.
Answer:
Yes. It's never too late.
If your child is under 5 and missed any polio drops - whether routine or campaign - tell the next polio team. They'll adjust and help ensure your child catches up.
Answer:
Keep a vaccination card and mark every campaign dose at home using:
You can also register with EPI Pakistan's SMS tracking system or your local health center.
Final Word: You Have a Right to Ask. But Also a Duty to Protect.
Dear parent,
Asking questions doesn't mean you're paranoid.
It means you care.
But once your questions are answered, don't let fear stop you from taking action.
Polio is still here.
It's silent. It's serious.
But it's 100% preventable with a few drops, a few seconds, and a lot of love.
Say yes to protection. Say yes to polio drops.
Parents, we're the front line. Let's win this fight for our children, our neighborhoods, and our future.
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