KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday officially launched a nationwide anti-polio vaccination campaign on Monday at Fatima Jinnah Girls High School in Garden, coinciding with Global Polio Day.
During the event, he announced that a seven-day vaccination drive aims to immunize 1.6 million children under the age of five in Sindh alone, supported by 81,000 dedicated polio workers.
Highlighting the urgency of the campaign, Shah reported that Pakistan has seen a resurgence in polio cases in recent years, with 41 cases reported nationwide this year, including 12 in Sindh.
He noted that the late Benazir Bhutto first initiated the polio vaccination campaign in Pakistan, significantly reducing cases. However, he expressed concern over the current situation, emphasizing the need for parents to ensure their children receive vaccinations.
The Chief Minister urged local authorities, particularly Deputy Commissioners, to remain actively involved in the vaccination efforts to guarantee their success. He expressed disappointment that Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only countries still affected by the polio virus, stressing the importance of vaccination as a means to combat the disease.
Shah also took the opportunity to discuss broader health initiatives, including plans to solarize diesel-powered tube wells to reduce energy costs for farmers, which he sees as crucial for enhancing public health measures in the region. He called for community cooperation and encouraged parents to report any refusal cases at the district and union council levels, which would help track vaccination progress and engage hesitant families.
In response to concerns about the caretaker government’s impact on public health, Shah asserted that the caretaker setup should be abolished, arguing it offers no benefits, especially regarding vaccine accessibility.
As Pakistan continues its fight against polio, this renewed focus on vaccination and community engagement is critical in ensuring the health and safety of future generations.
