PM Shehbaz Sharif launches final push against polio, vows to eradicate virus
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday inaugurated a nationwide anti-polio campaign, administering polio drops to children under five years of age and reiterating the government’s unwavering resolve to eliminate the virus permanently from Pakistan. This significant move comes amid rising concerns over an increase in polio cases, with around 60 new cases reported recently.
During the launch, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the combined efforts of federal and provincial governments, along with support from international partners, would overcome this challenge. He praised the contributions of key organizations and individuals, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization (WHO), and Saudi Arabia, particularly acknowledging Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s efforts in supporting anti-polio campaigns in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
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“I deeply appreciate the efforts of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, WHO, and the government of Saudi Arabia. Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman’s valuable contributions have been instrumental in our fight against polio. Together, we will not rest until polio is eradicated for good,” the Prime Minister stated.
Under the leadership of Dr. Ayesha Raza Farooq, over 400,000 polio workers have been deployed across 143 districts to ensure no child is left unvaccinated. The campaign emphasizes reaching children in remote and high-risk areas with a robust security framework provided by law enforcement agencies and security forces to safeguard the health workers.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the bravery and dedication of the polio workers, who often operate under challenging conditions. He urged parents nationwide to actively participate in the campaign and vaccinate their children, emphasizing the devastating impact of polio on families and communities.
Dr. Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s focal person for the anti-polio drive, expressed gratitude for the government’s steadfast support. She highlighted the campaign’s comprehensive approach, assuring that every effort would be made to vaccinate all children and move closer to a polio-free Pakistan.
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