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

In an interview with Radio Pakistan’s correspondent Qasim Bukhari, she emphasized this year’s theme, "Immunization for All is Humanly Possible," which highlights the universal right of every child to access vaccines.

She noted that Pakistan’s Expanded Program on Immunization, launched in 1978, initially targeted six diseases. Today, it offers free protection against 12 diseases, including polio, measles, hepatitis B, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Dr Samra Khurram said the full immunization schedule runs from birth to 18 months, requiring seven visits to health centers.

She urged parents to complete their children's vaccination schedules on time and visit nearby centers for any missed doses. While Punjab leads the country in immunization coverage, she stressed the goal of reaching 100 percent immunization.

She said for further information, citizens can contact the Health Department’s helpline at 1033.