Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday, paid tribute to the dedication of polio workers and acknowledged the contributions of international partners in the fight against polio, emphasising his government's determination to eliminate the disease from the country and protect the future of millions of children in Pakistan.
Addressing an event in connection with World Polio Day in Islamabad today, the premier highlighted the need for a united response to the recent increase in polio cases.
He assured attendees that the government is committed to eradicating polio and will tackle this challenge with unwavering resolve.
Earlier, PM Shehbaz kicked off a nationwide vaccination campaign by personally administering polio drops to children.
He expressed gratitude to organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for their vital support, as well as to the Saudi government for their assistance.
Recognising polio workers as "true heroes," the prime minister honoured their sacrifices and presented shields to the families of those who lost their lives or were injured during vaccination campaigns.
PM Shehbaz pointed out that about 40 polio cases have been reported across four provinces, pledging to effectively address these incidents.
The prime minister also stressed the alarming fact that polio remains only in Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for collective action to overcome this challenge.
Speaking on the occasion, Coordinator to PM on National Health Services Dr Mukhtar Bharath praised the significant oversight of polio efforts at the highest level, which he believes fosters hope for success in eradication.
He reiterated the government’s full support for polio workers and emphasized the importance of their commitment.
With rising cases attributed to an immunity gap, he assured that vaccination teams would reach every household to ensure all children receive their vaccinations.
Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Senator Ayesha Raza discussed the increased polio cases and outlined a renewed strategy to address this issue.
She thanked the prime minister for his leadership and expressed optimism that ongoing vaccination efforts would soon lead to a polio-free Pakistan.
The PM's focal person said that the campaign aims to deploy around 400,000 polio workers to vaccinate approximately 45 million children.