Health Desk:
QUETTA: The anti-polio campaign in Balochistan is now set to commence on December 30, following two postponements that have raised concerns among health officials and organizations. Initially scheduled for December 16, the drive was first delayed on December 17 and failed to launch again earlier this week.
The Emergency Operation Cell (EOC) has attributed the latest postponement to district-level preparation issues. However, sources within the Balochistan Health Department disclosed that the Grand Health Alliance (GHA) boycott is the primary reason behind the disruption. The GHA has been pressing the provincial government to address its demands, leading to delays in the campaign’s rollout.
Balochistan has reported over two dozen polio cases this year, making it the hardest-hit region in Pakistan. Despite comprising only 5% of the country’s population, the province’s alarmingly high case count has sparked concern among health professionals, parents, and international organizations.
A senior health department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “The boycott by the GHA has significantly hindered efforts to eradicate polio and caused repeated postponements of the campaign.”
The surge in polio cases highlights the urgent need for action to protect children from the crippling disease. Health authorities now aim to resolve logistical and administrative challenges to ensure the campaign proceeds smoothly on December 30.
