Multi-pronged events during World Immunization Week raise vaccination awareness in Kohistan

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st May, 2026) A series of multi-pronged events were organized in Kohistan to mark World Immunization Week, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination in protecting children from preventable diseases.

As part of the campaign, sensitization sessions were held in schools and community centres where health workers educated parents, teachers, and community members about routine immunization and its vital role in ensuring a healthy future for children.

Key stakeholders, including Deputy Commissioner, District Health Officer (DHO), health department officials, EPI Coordinator and religious scholars were actively engaged to strengthen outreach and ensure that awareness messages reached the maximum number of people.

“Participants were encouraged to complete their children’s vaccination schedules and to dispel common misconceptions about vaccines,” said Farah Shahid, Executive Director Khagarah Development Organization (KDO), a civil society organization working in collaboration with Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to improve routine immunization in hard-to-reach and high-risk areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

These initiatives were part of KDO’s project, “Immunize Now – Reach the Unreached,” which underscores the critical importance of ensuring routine immunization for every child, she added.

Awareness walks were also organized across various localities with participation from students, teachers, health officials and community elders.

The participants carried banners and placards highlighting key messages on immunization and the need for collective efforts to protect children from life-threatening diseases.

In addition to the walks and sensitization sessions, public awareness messages were widely disseminated through social media by officials and influential community members, urging parents to prioritize timely vaccination of their children.

Mobile awareness campaigns were also conducted through announcements via vehicles across residential and commercial areas of Lower Palas. Through announcements residents were informed about the benefits of vaccination and encouraged parents to ensure their children receive all essential vaccines on time.

The activities reflected strong commitment of the health department and local stakeholders to enhance immunization coverage and promote a healthier community in Kohistan.

The campaign generated visible awareness in communities, reinforcing the message that timely vaccination is essential to

safeguard children against preventable diseases and ensure a healthier future.