Staff Reporter
Dalbandin: An awareness event was organized in Chagai by the District Health Department in collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to mark World Polio Day. The ceremony brought together health officials, medical professionals, community leaders, and representatives of various organizations to highlight the importance of eradicating polio.
Speaking at the event, District Health Officer Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, Deputy DHO Dr. Javed Hassan Siyahpad, PPHI Officer Wahab Baloch, UNHCR Field Associate Abdul Hafeez Sanjrani, Dalbandin Press Club President Haji Farooq Siyahpad, IRC Program Officer Habibullah Mengal, and UNICEF Communication Officer Jaleel Baloch emphasized that polio remains a dangerous disease that can cause lifelong paralysis.
They noted that while most countries have successfully eliminated polio, Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only two nations where the virus still persists. The speakers also pointed out that polio is among 12 communicable diseases that can spread from one person to another, urging parents to ensure their children receive all necessary vaccinations.
Highlighting the challenges posed by cross-border movement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the participants stressed the need for collective community efforts and special measures in border areas to prevent the spread of the virus, particularly among Afghan refugees.
Officials announced that a Polio and Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign will run from November 17 to 29, targeting all children under the age of five.
Health experts and community representatives appealed to parents to ensure their children receive polio drops to protect them from permanent disability.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the national polio eradication program, raising awareness, and ensuring full cooperation in upcoming vaccination drives.
Prominent attendees included IRC Monitoring Officer Dr. Amanullah Sanjrani, IRC Community Officer Abdul Wadood Notizai, tribal elders Haji Abdul Rauf Notizai, Haji Noor Ali Sanjrani, Mir Riaz Jan Sanjrani, Waqar Reki (Vice Chairman, Barkat Foundation), Mir Tanveer Khan Sanjrani, Mir Ibrahim Reki, Muhammad Iqbal Reki, and Coach Abdul Waheed.
