KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has announced that twenty districts in the province are currently affected by the poliovirus, with thirteen confirmed cases. However, he emphasized his government’s commitment to eradicating the virus. This statement was made during a follow-up meeting with UNICEF Representative Mr. Abdullah Fadil and UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Mohammad Yahya. The meeting was also attended by Minister of Education Sardar Shah, Secretary to the CM Raheem Shaikh, and other officials.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the provincial government is concentrating on addressing the spread of polio, particularly in high-risk areas such as Karachi and rural districts like Shikarpur, Sujawal, and Ghotki. The latest case was reported on October 15 in Ghotki, and recent data shows that 66% of tested environmental sites in the province are positive for the wild poliovirus. Sindh’s Emergency Operations Center and local health teams are mobilizing resources and leading targeted initiatives to protect children under five across the province.

Mr. Abdullah Fadil noted that vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge but expressed optimism that the Sindh government’s strategic Social and Behavioral Change Communication programs would help boost awareness and encourage vaccination. Chief Minister Shah added that parliamentarians are being engaged to support vaccination teams in areas with high refusal rates.

Murad Shah highlighted that Sindh’s robust surveillance system, with 124 environmental monitoring sites, is one of the largest globally. Coordinated with routine immunization efforts, these sites play a crucial role in quickly detecting and responding to new cases. He also mentioned that upcoming vaccination campaigns in December are critical, following successful drives in October and November.

The Chief Minister stated that the government’s efforts are supported by global partners committed to achieving Pakistan’s goal of becoming a polio-free nation. Sindh’s leadership in implementing targeted and sustainable polio eradication initiatives continues to set a precedent, ensuring a healthier future for the children of Pakistan.