The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has refuted recent media reports suggesting that it has made polio drops mandatory for international travel. In a clarification statement issued on Wednesday, NADRA clarified that it is solely responsible for issuing polio vaccination certificates and holds no jurisdiction over immigration matters. The mandate for checking polio vaccinations of passengers traveling abroad has been implemented by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Here are the details:
Announcement 📣🚨 @NadraPak only issues Polio Vaccination certificates. We have no jurisdiction on immigration related matters. Clarification: NADRA has not instructed Airlines to check on passengers travelling abroad for Polio Vaccination Certificates. However, Civil… pic.twitter.com/WO1aVXQceg— NADRA (@NadraPak) August 1, 2023
According to a notification shared by NADRA on Twitter, the CAA has mandated airlines to check the polio vaccination status of passengers before allowing them to travel abroad. This measure is aimed at ensuring the prevention and control of polio transmission across borders.
Passengers planning to travel internationally are strongly advised to obtain their polio vaccination drops at least four weeks before their departure date. This allows sufficient time for the vaccine to take effect and protect the individual during their travel.
To facilitate the process, airlines are required to inform passengers about the polio vaccination requirement at the time of ticket issuance. Passengers should be made aware of the importance of complying with this regulation to avoid any inconvenience during their journey.
In addition, passengers are encouraged to obtain their polio vaccination certificates from the relevant District Health Office. The airport’s polio counter might not be able to accommodate all last-minute requests, so obtaining the certificate in advance is crucial.