Students Feel Ill During Vaccination Drive in Islamabad & Rawalpindi; Parents Alarmed
TrustedPakistan.com (Islamabad/Rawalpindi) — During a vaccination campaign in various schools in the twin cities, several schoolgirls suddenly fell ill. They were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment, sparking concern among parents.
What Happened
- According to eyewitnesses, after the vaccine was administered, some girls complained of dizziness, nausea, and uneasiness.
- School staff quickly called for medical help, and Rescue 1122 ambulances shifted the affected girls to hospitals.
- Parents rushed to schools and hospitals, creating panic as rumors spread about vaccine safety.
Officials’ Response
- Health department teams inspected the hospitals and confirmed that no serious complications were found.
- Doctors explained that in many cases, children faint or feel sick due to fear or anxiety, not the vaccine itself.
- Authorities clarified that the vaccine being used is WHO-approved and internationally tested for safety.
- Parents were urged not to fall for false rumors on social media.
Expert Opinion
Dr. Ayesha Malik, a pediatrician at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), said:
“Most children who feel dizzy after vaccination experience what we call injection anxiety. It’s more psychological than medical. Parents should calm their children before the shot and avoid making them nervous.”
She advised parents to:
- Keep children hydrated before vaccination.
- Make sure kids eat something light so they don’t feel weak.
- Talk positively about vaccines instead of scaring them.
- Stay with younger children during the injection to comfort them.
Why Vaccination Matters
Medical experts stress that vaccines protect children from dangerous and life-threatening diseases. While mild side effects like fever, body ache, or dizziness are common, they usually go away within a day.
Parents are encouraged to continue cooperating with health teams to ensure Pakistan remains safe from preventable diseases.
