Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has previously highlights Pakistan’s struggle with polio, noting that the country, along with Afghanistan, remains one of the last two nations globally grappling with the disease
ISLAMABAD: A recent report has confirmed a new case of polio in a child from Chakwal district, marking the first instance of the disease in Punjab this year. This development brings the total number of polio cases in Pakistan for 2024 to twelve.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bhirth, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for National Health, has strongly urged parents to ensure that their children under five receive polio vaccinations during every campaign. Dr. Bhirth emphasized that vaccination is critical to preventing the spread of this debilitating disease, which remains a significant health challenge in the country. Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio, has voiced concern over the confirmed case in Punjab.
In response, she announced that the Polio Eradication Programme will conduct a comprehensive investigation to refine strategies for upcoming vaccination campaigns in Chakwal and surrounding areas. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has previously highlighted Pakistan’s struggle with polio, noting that the country, along with Afghanistan, remains one of the last two nations globally grappling with the disease. During a recent meeting with a polio eradication team, the Prime Minister instructed authorities to deploy all available resources to eliminate polio.
The prime minister underscored the importance of administering the vaccine in regions facing security challenges and praised the efforts of front-line workers, the government’s resolve, and support from international partners. The Prime Minister was briefed on the anti-polio campaign’s strategic plans, which include targeted vaccination measures at two, four, and six-month intervals to combat the disease effectively. These efforts aim to build on past successes while addressing new challenges to achieve a polio-free Pakistan.
The recent case underscores the persistent challenges faced by Pakistan in its battle against polio. Despite significant progress in vaccination efforts, the disease continues to pose a threat, especially in areas where access and security remain issues. The government’s renewed focus on enhancing vaccination coverage and addressing emerging challenges is crucial in the fight to eradicate polio. The situation in Punjab highlights the need for continuous vigilance and commitment to vaccination efforts, ensuring that every child is protected against this preventable disease.
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