By Asma Kundi
ISLAMABAD: A high-level international delegation on Friday’s visit to Pakistan showed satisfaction with the country’s efforts to eradicate the virus.
Head of the virus Oversight Board Dr Chris Elias led the delegation that also included WHO Regional Director Dr Ahmed Al-Mandhari and UNICEF Regional Director George Laria Adji.
Most challenging phase to eradicate polio virus
The delegation appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate the virus. It said that at the pace at which Pakistan was working, it will be able to stop the transmission of the virus by 2023.
Dr Chris Elias said that the last steps to eradicate the virus were the most challenging.
“Thanks to the hard work of Pakistan and it is possible to end it. I was impressed by the commitment of the government, community, and frontline workers to ensure the viruseradication forever,” Dr Elias said
Dr Ahmed Al-Mandhari said that reaching every child and strengthening the routine immunization now was crucial for getting success during future polio campaigns. Pakistan is in the last phase of poliovirus elimination, he said.
He said this year’s progress has positioned the country well to eliminate poliovirus transmission in 2023.
This is the second visit of the delegation to Pakistan this year. The visit comes after recent floods have caused destruction to several health facilities and displaced millions of people.
Dr Ahmed said that in a year of elections and political transition, sustained political and administrative commitment will be needed to ensure that “we reach our target during 2023”.
