Child Vaccination in Pakistan: EPI Guide

Vaccines are one of the simplest ways to protect your child from serious illness. In Pakistan, routine childhood vaccination is run through the Expanded Programme on Immunization, known as EPI, under the Federal Directorate of Immunization. This guide explains what the programme covers and what parents should do.

What is the EPI programme?

EPI is Pakistan's national routine immunization programme. According to the Federal Directorate of Immunization, it aims to vaccinate children aged 0 to 15 months against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. The programme also vaccinates pregnant women.

Which diseases does EPI protect against?

The Federal Directorate of Immunization lists these 12 diseases:

• Childhood tuberculosis (TB)
• Polio
• Measles
• Rubella
• Diphtheria
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Tetanus
• Hepatitis B
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Diarrhoea
• Typhoid

Where can you find the vaccination schedule?

The official schedule shows which vaccines your child should get at each age, starting from birth. The Federal Directorate of Immunization publishes it on the Immunization Schedule page of its website (epi.gov.pk). Your child's vaccination card also records each dose and the date of the next visit. Ask your local health centre or vaccinator for a card if you do not have one, and bring it to every visit.

We have not reproduced the full schedule here because it can be updated. Always check the latest version with the official EPI source or your health worker.

How do vaccines protect your child?

WHO explains that a vaccine trains the body's immune system to recognise a particular germ and make antibodies against it. The body then remembers how to fight that disease. This protection can last for years, decades or even a lifetime.

Why is it important to vaccinate on time?

WHO warns that delaying vaccines leaves a child at risk of getting seriously ill in the meantime. During an outbreak, there may not be enough time for a late vaccine to start working. Following the schedule gives your child protection when they need it most.

Is it safe to give more than one vaccine at a time?

Yes. According to WHO, receiving several vaccines at the same visit does not overwhelm a child's immune system. Vaccine ingredients are carefully tested for safety.

What if your child missed a vaccine?

Do not give up on the remaining doses. WHO advises talking to your health worker about catching up so your child can complete the recommended vaccines.

Who can you contact for more information?

The Federal Directorate of Immunization in Islamabad can be reached on +92 51 9255101. Its website also mentions the Sehat Tahaffuz helpline, 1166, as a national health helpline.

When to see a doctor

WHO notes that a child who is severely ill with a high fever on the day of vaccination should not be vaccinated that day. Speak to a doctor or health worker and rebook the visit. Also see a doctor if:

• You are unsure which vaccines your child has had or still needs
• You have lost the vaccination card and need to plan catch-up doses
• You are worried about how your child reacted after a vaccine