Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a strong directive to ensure 100% coverage in the upcoming anti-polio campaign, emphasizing that no child under the age of five should be left unvaccinated. His remarks came during a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Thursday, where he reviewed the national efforts to eradicate polio.
Nationwide Campaign Kicks Off April 21
The Prime Minister announced that the nationwide anti-polio campaign will begin on Monday, April 21, and continue until Sunday. The campaign aims to vaccinate 4.5 million children across the country.
PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of reaching every corner of the country.
Routine Immunization Also a Priority
Beyond polio, the Prime Minister called for full-scale routine immunization against other deadly childhood diseases. He underscored the urgency of strengthening the public health system and providing regular vaccinations at all levels, especially in underserved communities.
To support this effort, he instructed the health departments to prioritize awareness campaigns and community engagement. Mobilizing parents, schools, and local leaders was presented as key to boosting participation in immunization drives.
Appreciation for Frontline Polio Workers
Shehbaz Sharif praised the dedication of the polio teams working in difficult environments. He called them the true frontline heroes in Pakistan’s ongoing fight against the disease. He acknowledged their commitment despite challenges such as remote terrain, harsh weather, and security risks.
“The nation is proud of its polio workers,” the Prime Minister said. “They are performing a national duty and protecting our future generations.”
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International Partners Recognized
The Prime Minister also commended the contributions of national and international partners in supporting Pakistan’s polio eradication mission.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with global health bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF to completely eliminate polio from the region.
Monitoring and Accountability Measures
In addition, third-party validation will be conducted from April 28 to 30 to verify the coverage and performance of the campaign. This move, initiated under the Prime Minister’s orders, aims to promote transparency and boost public trust.
No New Cases Reported in Recent Months
Health officials informed the meeting that no polio cases have been reported since February. This encouraging trend reflects the effectiveness of ongoing efforts but also highlights the need for vigilance.
The upcoming anti-polio campaign is being positioned as a critical step toward making Pakistan polio-free. With high-level oversight and grassroots involvement, authorities are hopeful that this round will bring the nation closer to complete eradication
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