Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho stressed the importance of continuous immunization efforts, acknowledging the pivotal role of frontline workers in the success of such campaigns
By Saima Baloch
KARACHI: Sindh’s Health Minister, Dr. Azra Pechuho, has officially inaugurated the province’s anti-polio campaign, marking a crucial advancement in the fight against the disease. The campaign, which will run from September 9 to September 15, aims to vaccinate approximately 4.9 million children across 30 districts of Sindh.
In her address, Dr. Pechuho commended the efforts of the Sindh polio team, emphasizing the importance of rigorous monitoring and evaluation to ensure the campaign’s effectiveness. She underscored that such oversight is essential for the campaign’s success and directed relevant authorities to provide full support to the frontline workers involved. The campaign will see nearly 70,000 frontline workers mobilized to deliver polio vaccinations to every eligible child. This large-scale initiative reflects the provincial government’s dedication to eradicating polio and protecting the health of future generations.
The launch event, held with notable presence, saw Dr. Pechuho administer two drops of the polio vaccine to children, symbolizing the commencement of the campaign. Among the attendees were Sindh’s Health Secretary, Rehan Iqbal Baloch, CEO of Dr. Essa Lab, Dr. Farhan Essa, Emergency Operation Center Coordinator for Sindh, Irshad Ali Sodhar, and Provincial Director of EPI, Dr. Muhammad Naeem. Their presence underscores the collaborative effort and high-level commitment towards this critical public health initiative.
The campaign will mobilize nearly 70,000 frontline workers dedicated to reaching every eligible child with the life-saving polio drops. This large-scale operation highlights the government’s resolve to eliminate polio from Sindh and safeguard the health of future generations. In her address, Dr. Azra Pechuho stressed the importance of continuous immunization efforts, acknowledging the pivotal role of frontline workers in the success of such campaigns. She also appealed to parents to fully cooperate in ensuring their children receive the vaccine, which is crucial for preventing polio.
The polio vaccine, which has proven to be safe and effective, is a key tool in eradicating the disease. Its success in numerous countries, including many Muslim nations, reinforces its efficacy. Parents are encouraged to reach out to the Health Protection Helpline at 1166 or the WhatsApp Helpline at 03467776546 to verify that their children receive the vaccine and no one is left unprotected.
The campaign’s success relies not only on health professionals but also on community support. Frontline workers, security personnel, religious leaders, and community representatives are all called upon to contribute to and endorse the anti-polio effort. By working together, Sindh and Pakistan can move closer to a polio-free future.
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