KARACHI: In a bid to combat the persistent threat of polio, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah is contemplating severe actions against parents refusing to vaccinate their children. Among the proposed measures are the blocking of cell phone SIMs and the suspension of national identity cards and passports. These actions aim to pressure parents into fulfilling what the chief minister describes as a “national duty” to eradicate polio, thereby protecting not only their children but the wider community.
During a meeting at the CM House, Mr. Shah announced the establishment of a ‘Polio Vaccine Refusal Cell.’ This initiative will gather detailed information on parents rejecting the vaccine, with the aim of addressing these cases through a combination of social, political, and administrative strategies.
Expressing frustration over the ongoing reports of polio cases, Mr. Shah emphasized the need for serious efforts from the Health Department and district administrations. “Negligence in the polio campaign will not be tolerated,” he warned, noting that he has already dismissed several officers for underperformance.
The chief minister highlighted the urgency of the situation, pointing out that Sindh has reported nine of the nation’s 29 polio cases. He demanded a comprehensive eradication plan from the Health Department and called for a renewed polio campaign at the Union Council level.
The meeting revealed that many of the recent cases originated from parental refusals to administer polio drops, or children being unavailable during vaccination campaigns. Environmental samples from various Karachi areas have tested positive for the virus, underscoring the need for immediate action.
Starting October 13, the polio campaign is to be conducted with increased intensity. Mr. Shah urged full participation from the administration and appealed to the public to ensure their children receive the vaccine.
The chief minister also activated the Refusal Conversion Committee to promptly address and eliminate refusal cases. Elected representatives and local officials are tasked with visiting households to ensure children receive the vaccine, even forcibly if necessary.
Additionally, Mr. Shah directed Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to formulate a plan to block mobile SIMs, ID cards, and passports for those refusing the polio drops. He stressed that vaccination efforts must also include nomadic families, often residing in border areas.
The meeting was attended by various high-profile officials, including Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, and senior police and administrative officers, all of whom committed to intensifying efforts to eradicate polio from Sindh.