Health Desk:
The anti-polio campaign in Balochistan has been postponed for the second time, raising concerns among health officials and organizations. Initially scheduled to begin on December 16, the campaign was first delayed on December 17 and failed to commence again on Tuesday. According to the Emergency Operation Cell (EOC), the drive will now start on December 18.
While the EOC has not cited any official reason for the repeated delays, sources within the Balochistan Health Department revealed that the Grand Health Alliance (GHA) boycott is the primary cause. The GHA has been pressuring the government to meet its demands, which has disrupted efforts to eradicate the crippling virus.
Balochistan remains the hardest-hit region, reporting over two dozen polio cases this year. Despite accounting for only 5% of Pakistan’s population, the province’s alarming number of cases has raised concerns among health professionals, parents, and organizations.
A well-placed source in the health department, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “The boycott has severely impacted the campaign’s progress and contributed to its repeated postponement.”
The surge in cases has sent alarm bells ringing, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect children from the crippling virus.
