Shehryar Memon called on journalists and media partners to amplify the polio eradication campaign, emphasizing that accurate reporting is vital to addressing persistent technical and social hurdles
By our correspondent
KARACHI: Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Sindh Coordinator Sheryar Gul Memon said both the province and the country were on the “last mile” towards eliminating the disease. Speaking at a media meet-up, he stressed the urgency of addressing the transmission of the poliovirus, which he described as both “crucial and deadly.”
Memon appealed directly to journalists and media partners to lend their voice to the campaign, highlighting the role of accurate reporting in overcoming technical and social challenges that continue to hinder progress. “We are at a decisive stage,” he said, “and the entire nation is watching. Every effort counts in ensuring that polio is eradicated from Sindh and across Pakistan.”
During the session, Memon assured participants that the government and its partner agencies were committed to leaving no stone unturned in the effort to eliminate the virus. He also called on parents and caregivers to strengthen routine immunization programs, emphasizing that the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) was the key to achieving the “last mile” in polio eradication.
The EOC Technical Lead, Dr Sandeep, supported these remarks through a detailed presentation, addressing common misconceptions about vaccination and responding to concerns raised by journalists. He also encouraged the media to actively dispel myths and help remove barriers that could impede anti-polio drives.
Adding a deeply human perspective, Abrar Khan, a young man affected by poliovirus, shared his story of perseverance and motivation despite his suffering. The session was attended by health experts, including Dr Dure Shahwar and Dr Wasim Jamal of the Pakistan Paediatric Association, Dr Shumaila Rasool, Dr Azeem, and EOC staffers.
Most of the speakers highlighted the importance of community engagement and collective action in overcoming the final hurdles in the fight against polio. The meet-up underscored the crucial role of media, health authorities, and communities working together to achieve what has long been a national priority: a Pakistan free from polio.
