ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern that Pakistan remains one of the two countries in the world where polio is still endemic, the other being neighboring Afghanistan. The premier instructed relevant authorities to utilize all available resources to eliminate the debilitating disease from the country.
Despite ongoing anti-polio drives, the disease continues to affect Pakistan. This year, Pakistan has reported nine polio cases, a 50% increase compared to the six polio cases reported in 2023.
In a meeting with the polio eradication team, the prime minister emphasized the need for every child in high-risk areas to receive the polio vaccine, even in regions with security challenges. He acknowledged the significant progress made in polio eradication due to the dedication of frontline workers, government commitment, and the support of various partners.
During the briefing, the prime minister was informed about the plans for polio eradication, including short-term strategies (two, four, and six months). It was noted that nine polio cases have been detected in 2024, and nationwide vaccination campaigns are scheduled for September, October, and December this year.
The meeting also highlighted that data on missed vaccinations has been digitized to facilitate tracking and ensure that all children receive the necessary vaccinations.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmed, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health; Dr. Ayesha Raza Farooq, PM’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication; Dr. Nadeem Mehboon, Secretary of National Health; and Muhammad Anwarul Haq, National Coordinator on Polio Eradication attended the meeting.
