ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reached a historic milestone in child immunisation, achieving its highest-ever coverage rate of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine at 87% in 2024, according to new data released by UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). Building on this success, the country is expected to introduce the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in 2025.
The report highlights that South Asia, as a whole, has recorded its highest immunisation coverage to date, reflecting increased government commitment, investment, and robust partnerships across the region. In 2024, 92% of infants in South Asia received their third dose of the DTP vaccine—a key global benchmark for immunisation progress. This represents a two-percentage point rise from 2023, while first-dose coverage rose from 93% to 95%.
These gains indicate a full rebound from pandemic-related setbacks, as countries intensify their focus on child health and immunisation services. A particularly significant achievement is the 27% drop in the number of “zero-dose” children—those who have never received any routine vaccine—down from 2.5 million in 2023 to 1.8 million in 2024.
“This is a proud moment for South Asia. More children are protected today than ever before, thanks to tireless frontline health workers, strong government leadership, donor and partner support, and the trust of families,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia.
However, challenges remain. Over 2.9 million children across the region are still either unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases. UNICEF and WHO have called on regional governments to maintain strong political will and boost domestic funding to reach every child, especially in remote and underserved areas.
In a statement to the Senate, Pakistan’s Health Minister Mustafa Kamal warned that the country remains at risk of being the last in the world to eliminate poliovirus, underscoring the urgent need to sustain progress in routine immunisation and expand new vaccine coverage.
The data reflects a turning point for South Asia’s public health landscape, with hopes now pinned on ensuring universal access to life-saving vaccines for every child.