**Mass Vaccination Campaign Launched in Bannu to Protect Children from 12 Deadly Diseases**
A major vaccination initiative has been launched in Bannu to protect thousands of children from 12 life-threatening diseases, with local authorities urging parents to ensure their children receive the full course of immunizations. The government is allocating significant annual funding to the programme, which is being conducted at local Basic Health Units (BHUs) and through mobile teams that visit homes during the ongoing “Big Catch-Up” campaign.
Faiz Mashal, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Development Program (CDP), highlighted the significance of this drive while speaking to the media. He emphasized that the campaign, supported by UNICEF, is targeting various union councils across Bannu to reach as many children as possible. As part of these efforts, a 12-day awareness campaign was launched, including public announcements, to ensure parents in every community are informed and no child is left unvaccinated.
Mashal urged the public to take full advantage of government health initiatives. He warned that the 12 diseases targeted by the campaign pose a grave risk to children from birth to five years of age, and stressed that all vaccines are provided free of charge at both fixed and outreach vaccination sites.
Despite the availability of life-saving vaccines, Mashal expressed concern over persistent negligence among some families regarding child immunization. He called on parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s health and future by participating actively in vaccination campaigns and spreading awareness within their communities.
