The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized the eradication of maternal and neonatal tetanus in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and Pakistan-Administered Kashmir (PAK). Approximately 80 percent of the Pakistani population currently resides in regions exhibiting a low prevalence of neonatal tetanus, defined as fewer than one case per 1,000 live births. This achievement is attributable to strategies implemented by national and regional governing bodies, in conjunction with UNICEF and WHO, encompassing immunization programs for pregnant women and women of childbearing age, enhanced health surveillance, and the promotion of safer delivery practices with improved access to antenatal, maternal, newborn, and child health services.
Despite the support provided by UNICEF and WHO in vaccinating 5.4 million pregnant women and women of childbearing age nationwide in 2024, Pakistan remains among the ten countries globally that have yet to achieve complete eradication of neonatal tetanus. In 2024, a total of 322 cases and 6 deaths were reported throughout the country; however, WHO experts estimate that only 30% of cases are officially reported. The collaboration between UNICEF and WHO with Pakistan is focused on supporting the remaining provinces and regions, specifically Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan, with the ultimate aim of achieving the elimination target by 2028.
