Karachi, Karachi has reported a notable decline in cases of drug-resistant typhoid following the introduction of the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) into Pakistan’s routine immunization schedule. Launched in 2019 as the first country globally to adopt the WHO-recommended vaccine, Pakistan has seen a two-thirds reduction in XDR typhoid cases across Sindh, particularly in Hyderabad. Amid ongoing efforts against the disease, the Health Department of the Government of Sindh is initiating a new vaccination campaign targeting both Karachi and Hyderabad to curb the recent spike in typhoid cases.

According to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan, the TCV has been highly effective, demonstrating a 97% effectiveness rate against the disease, including its drug-resistant strains. This success has not only curtailed the spread of typhoid in Pakistan but also in other regions like Zimbabwe. The upcoming vaccination drive, running from May 13 to May 25, 2024, will focus on administering free vaccines to children aged 9 months to 15 years. Vaccination teams are scheduled to visit local areas and schools as part of this initiative, and vaccines will also be available at government health centers.

This proactive measure reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing public health through targeted vaccination campaigns, aiming to prevent the further transmission and evolution of drug-resistant typhoid.