Health Desk:
QUETTA: In a concerted effort to combat the resurgence of polio cases, a special anti-polio campaign has been initiated across Balochistan, spanning all 30 districts of the province. Syed Zahid Shah, Coordinator of Emergency Operation Center (EOC) Balochistan, announced the launch of the campaign, emphasizing its critical importance in light of recent polio cases and the detection of the virus in environmental samples.
Scheduled to commence on Monday, April 29, the campaign aims to immunize more than 23 lakh 95 thousand children against polio. Shah highlighted the necessity of this campaign, citing the recent emergence of polio cases in Chaman and Dera Bugti after a three-year hiatus.
“This special anti-polio campaign will continue for seven days in 30 districts of the province, including Quetta,” stated Shah. “All preparations for the campaign have been completed, and special emphasis has been placed on securing the cooperation of parents, civil society, teachers, and scholars.”
Despite challenging weather conditions, changing rains pattren, rising temperatures, polio workers remain steadfast in their commitment to fulfill the national duty of eradicating polio from Balochistan. Shah acknowledged the tireless efforts of over 10 thousand teams, comprising mobile teams, fixed sites, and transit points, in ensuring the widespread administration of polio vaccines.
“Foolproof security arrangements have been put in place, with police, Levies, and FC jawans dedicated to safeguarding the campaign,” assured Shah.
Shah reiterated the collective responsibility to ensure every child receives the necessary polio drops, emphasizing the prevention of future disabilities caused by the poliovirus.
This campaign came in the aftermath of polio cases reported from the Chaman and Dera Bugti districts of Balochistan.
