Round-the-Clock Protection for Newborns in Pakistan
At the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, life begins with care and protection. With 30 to 40 babies born daily, the hospital has become a beacon of hope for families seeking timely immunization for their newborns. Supported by UNICEF and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), PIMS now offers 24/7 vaccination services, ensuring that every child receives essential birth-dose vaccines regardless of the time of delivery.
Previously, vaccinations were limited to a one-hour window each day, leaving many newborns vulnerable to diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, and hepatitis B. The new system provides continuous access, with trained vaccinators like Ayesha Bibi working tirelessly in shifts to administer vaccines and counsel parents on their importance.
Pakistan faces daunting challenges in child health. Each year, 7 million babies are born, yet 431,000 die before their first birthday. Neonatal mortality remains high at 35 per 1,000 live births, with risks linked to low birth weight, prematurity, and preventable diseases like pneumonia and diarrhea. Strengthening early care and immunization is critical to reversing these trends.
Mothers like Kiran from Nowshera, who traveled 150 km to deliver her son at PIMS, highlight the impact of the initiative. “I gave birth at 3 am, and thanks to the 24/7 facility, my baby received his vaccine on time. I’m deeply relieved knowing he is protected,” she shared.
Over the past six months, nearly 5,000 newborns have benefited from round-the-clock vaccination at PIMS. Eight KSrelief-supported sites across Pakistan now provide similar services, helping ensure that every child begins life with protection against deadly diseases.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to building a resilient healthcare system where no newborn is left unprotected. By combining dedication, training, and international support, Pakistan is taking vital steps toward safeguarding its youngest citizens from the very first day of life.
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