Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, leading the provincial polio task force meeting, stressed the urgency of eliminating polio through focused and collective efforts, warning, ‘Every missed child is a potential case. Polio won’t be eliminated through routine; it requires targeted, urgent, and collective action. We must ensure that no child in Sindh remains unprotected.’

The meeting, held at CM House, included key figures such as Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Minister Local Govt Saeed Ghani, and representatives from various organizations. The discussions centered on recent epidemiological trends, campaign performance assessments, and the upcoming campaign scheduled from May 26 to June 1, 2025.

Health Minister Dr. Azra revealed that 10 wild polio cases have been reported in Pakistan this year, with 4 cases in Sindh. Sewage samples also indicate ongoing virus circulation. The May campaign aims to reach over 10.6 million children under five across 1,292 Union Councils in all 30 districts of Sindh, supported by more than 80,000 trained frontline workers and 25,539 law enforcement personnel.

Addressing highrisk areas, especially in Karachi, 157 doctors have been assigned to handle 6,780 sick refusals, with police support to reach 2,524 chronic refusals. The chief minister instructed the activation of Refusal Conversion Committees in defaulting areas.

Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah reiterated the importance of accountability, stating, ‘Every missed child is a potential case. Polio won’t be eliminated through routine, it demands targeted, urgent, and collective action. Let’s not allow any child in Sindh to remain unprotected.’

Emphasizing collaboration, he added, ‘The fight against polio is a fight for trust, equity, and access. We must work hand in hand with parents, ulema, teachers, and frontline workers to ensure every child is vaccinatedevery time.’