Islamabad: The government of Pakistan has intensified its efforts to eradicate polio, with a nationwide campaign targeting 30 million children under five years of age. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister for Health, visited the National Emergency Operation Center for Polio to review the ongoing efforts and ensure no child is left unvaccinated.
According to Press Information Department, Dr. Mukhtar, during a briefing at the National Emergency Operation Center for Polio, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to rid the country of polio under the Prime Minister’s leadership. He outlined a comprehensive strategy focusing on high-risk districts and union councils. The campaign, which runs from September 9 to September 15, will see 286,000 polio workers administering vaccines door to door across 115 districts.
Dr. Mukhtar highlighted the critical role of frontline polio workers in the eradication efforts, labeling them as the “real heroes” in the fight against the disease. He also urged parents to cooperate by ensuring their children receive polio drops, stressing the importance of community support in achieving a polio-free future. Dr. Mukhtar appealed to parents, civil society, media, religious scholars, and community leaders to actively participate in the campaign, describing the eradication of polio as a combined religious, ethical, and health responsibility.
The Coordinator reiterated the government’s urgency in working with federal and provincial authorities to secure a healthy future for the next generation, free from polio.