Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah inaugurated a pivotal week-long Polio Eradication Campaign, aiming to vaccinate over 10.6 million children across Sindh, with a significant focus on Karachi”s 2.76 million children.
This ambitious initiative underscores the government”s commitment to eradicating the crippling disease from the region.
At the ceremony, attended by senior officials and representatives from global health organizations on Monday, the Chief Minister administered polio drops to children, symbolizing the start of the campaign.
A dedicated force of 69,724 trained frontline workers will conduct door-to-door visits, ensuring widespread coverage despite the province”s intense heatwave.
The Chief Minister highlighted the deployment of 25,360 police personnel to safeguard the vaccination teams and ensure smooth operations. He appealed to the public to welcome the teams, emphasizing the critical role of vaccination in preventing lifelong paralysis.
Addressing vaccine safety concerns, Mr. Shah reassured citizens of the vaccine”s efficacy, noting its widespread use globally and in religious pilgrimages. He urged parents to vaccinate their children, even if they have been recently vaccinated, to maintain protection.
The Chief Minister concluded with a call for collective action, urging cooperation from all sectors to secure a polio-free future for the upcoming generations. The campaign, running from April 21 to 27, is a testament to Sindh”s united front against polio, as reiterated by Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, who highlighted the ongoing virus circulation in environmental samples and the necessity of continued vaccination efforts.
Families are encouraged to cooperate with polio teams, and if any child under five has missed their drops, they can contact the helpline at 1166 or via WhatsApp at 0346-7776546.