ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif renewed Pakistan’s dedication to eradicating polio, stressing the need for unified action to permanently defeat the disease. Speaking at a meeting focused on the country’s polio eradication strategy, he expressed a steadfast commitment to ending polio. “We will not rest until we have permanently defeated polio,” the Prime Minister asserted, underscoring the urgency of the campaign.
During the session, PM Shehbaz praised the government’s polio team for their ongoing efforts to contain the disease. He acknowledged their dedication and encouraged them to continue their work in combating polio across Pakistan.
The Prime Minister directed key officials, including National Health Coordinator Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, Polio Focal Person Ayesha Raza Farooq, and the Secretary of National Health, to conduct visits to the regions most affected by polio. The identified areas were pinpointed in recent polio surveillance, and PM Shehbaz emphasized that these targeted visits would allow health authorities to better understand local challenges and make rapid improvements in vaccination coverage.
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Third-Party Audit for Transparency
In a move to ensure transparency and effectiveness, PM Shehbaz called for a third-party audit of the national anti-polio campaign. This measure, he explained, will enable authorities to objectively evaluate the campaign’s performance, addressing any weaknesses and bolstering public confidence in the government’s efforts.
PM Shehbaz also advocated for a comprehensive strategy to bridge the existing immunity gap, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. He highlighted the importance of immunization and urged officials to implement measures that would improve community outreach and education on the necessity of vaccination.
During the meeting, health officials presented a briefing on the status of Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts. Currently, the country has 41 active polio cases, with a significant 25 cases occurring in individuals who lacked sufficient routine immunisation. The briefing revealed that polio transmission rates are notably lower in regions with higher vaccination rates, showcasing the critical role of immunisation in controlling the disease.
Focus on Continued Vaccination Efforts
Health authorities emphasized that areas with strong vaccination initiatives show significantly lower rates of polio, a fact that underscores the need for sustained vaccination campaigns. They noted that prioritising routine immunisation, especially among underserved communities, remains the most effective tool for eradicating polio.
With the Prime Minister’s renewed call for unity and a focused strategy, Pakistan aims to move closer to a polio-free future. The government, alongside its health officials, remains dedicated to ensuring that vaccination reaches every child, especially in high-risk areas, in the ongoing battle against polio.
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