Expanded Program on Immunization Punjab

Director Health Services (EPI) Dr. Naveed Akhtar visited DHQ Vehari to monitor quality of EPI services. He reviewed documentation and discussed issues and challenges faced by the staff.

Director Health Services EPI Dr. Naveed Akhtar visits polio teams, EPI fixed sites and transit sites at Kamonki to ensure quality campaign. The polio campaign is underway in Punjab from 13 to 18 April.

The EPI Punjab Steering Committee Meeting was held in Lahore on March 26, 2026, organized by EPI Punjab in collaboration with UNICEF. The meeting was chaired by Director EPI Punjab Dr. Naveed Akhtar Malik, with the presence of Prof. Dr. Tariq Iqbal Bhutta and Prof. Dr. Shakila Zaman. A wide range of experts participated, including Prof. Dr. Saira Afzal; Prof. Dr. Ashraf Nizami, President PAPA; Dr. Tariq Mian, President PAFP; Dr. Khurram Mubeen Khan, Immunization Officer UNICEF; Dr. Mehroz Saleem, Technical Officer WHO; Dr. Mehwish Saleem, Additional Director EPI Punjab; Dr. Atif Javed, M& E Officer WHO; Mr. Aqeel Sarfraz, SBC Consultant UNICEF; Mr. Obaidullah Qazi, Provincial Coordinator Jhpiego and Mr. Syed Husnain, Technical Manager CDC program among others.

The key agenda items included the current situation of measles in Punjab, introduction of HPV vaccine into routine immunization, and rationalization of the EPI Steering Committee. The chair invited participants to share insights, fostering an interactive discussion. Prof. Dr. Tariq Bhutta emphasized the inclusion of stakeholders such as SOGP and gynecologists in the committee for effective HPV vaccine implementation. Dr. Mehroz Saleem presented an overview of the measles situation, highlighting surveillance challenges. Participants proposed actionable solutions, particularly to strengthen VPD surveillance systems. The meeting concluded with an invitation by Prof. Dr. Ashraf Nizami to attend the upcoming EGA Health Conference by PMA in Lahore.