Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: An 18-month-old child has contracted the polio virus in the Killa Abdullah district, marking the fifth polio case reported in Balochistan this year. This alarming development underscores the critical need for intensified efforts in the ongoing battle against this crippling disease.
In response to this case, Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfaraz Bugti met with a representative delegation led by Dr. Christopher Ilyas, Head of the Polio Oversight Board and President of the Global Development Division at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, on Tuesday. The meeting focused on strategies to enhance the anti-polio campaign in the province.
Chief Minister Bugti reiterated Balochistan’s commitment to eradicating polio, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with international partners and national institutions. “Together, we will intensify efforts to make Balochistan polio-free. Full security is being provided to the workers assigned to the anti-polio campaign,” he assured.
Dr. Ilyas and his delegation highlighted the ongoing measures to combat polio and appreciated the government’s resolve to eliminate the disease. They also discussed the challenges faced during the immunization campaign, including logistical difficulties and security concerns.
The federal and provincial governments are dedicated to the success of the polio eradication campaign, providing necessary technical expertise and resources. Upper Balochistan officials pledged to address the issues encountered by the campaign teams, ensuring a coordinated and effective effort to achieve the desired goals.
The meeting concluded with Dr. Ilyas presenting Chief Minister Bugti with a souvenir, symbolizing the ongoing partnership and shared commitment to eradicating polio from Balochistan.
This recent polio case is a stark reminder of the challenges that remain in the fight against polio. However, with reinforced efforts and continued collaboration, there is hope that Balochistan can soon be free from this devastating disease.
