QUETTA – In a landmark achievement for public health, Balochistan has recorded a historic improvement in routine immunization coverage, according to the latest independent survey conducted by Aga Khan University.

The third round of the TPVICS (Topographic Vaccination Coverage Survey) reveals significant gains across key indicators, marking a major milestone for the province's Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).

Key Findings of the Survey:

· Full immunization coverage surged to 56.6%, up from 37.6% — a remarkable 19 percentage point increase.

· Zero-dose children dropped sharply to 13.4%, down from 33.7% — a 20.3 percentage point decline.

· Community access to vaccination services improved to 67%, rising from 31% — a 36 percentage point gain.

Officials attribute this progress to a combination of strengthened provincial leadership, improved governance, and enhanced oversight mechanisms. Additional resource allocation, refined micro-planning, expansion of mobile vaccination services, and the introduction of a digital immunization system have also played a pivotal role in reaching previously underserved populations.

"This is a testament to the collective effort of health workers, community stakeholders, and administrative reforms," an EPI Balochistan spokesperson said. "We remain committed to sustaining this momentum and ensuring every child in Balochistan is protected against vaccine-preventable diseases."

Health experts have hailed the development as a turning point for the province, which has historically faced challenges in healthcare access due to geographic and logistical barriers. The findings underscore the impact of data-driven strategies and decentralized planning in improving health outcomes.

Authorities have reaffirmed their resolve to build on this success, with continued focus on hard-to-reach areas and further integration of technology into the immunization framework.

— Balochistan Dispatch