In a stark warning to parents on World Polio Day, Sindh’s Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho today stressed that even seemingly healthy children are vulnerable to the poliovirus and must be vaccinated to ensure their protection. She emphasized that youngsters with weaker immunity are particularly susceptible.
Addressing a ceremony at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Dr. Pechuho lauded polio workers as “true heroes” for their relentless door-to-door efforts, often in challenging circumstances. She paid rich tribute to their dedicated service, along with that of Deputy Commissioners and District Health Officers.
The minister expressed her firm resolve to make Sindh a polio-free province by 2026, describing the eradication of the crippling disease as a top government priority and a national responsibility. “If the same level of commitment and cooperation continues, we will, God willing, make Sindh a polio-free province by 2026,” she stated.
Dr. Pechuho issued a direct appeal to caregivers, urging them to cooperate during every immunization campaign. “It is the duty of every parent to protect their children by ensuring they are vaccinated so that no child remains unprotected,” she urged, reaffirming the Sindh government”s full commitment to the cause.
The health minister noted that due to the dedicated efforts of frontline personnel, the number of polio cases in the province has dropped significantly. ‘We must remain determined to celebrate a Polio-Free Day next year,’ she remarked, voicing optimism that Pakistan will soon become a polio-free nation.
The event, organized by the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for Polio Eradication Sindh, was attended by key officials including Secretary Health Rehan Baloch and Provincial EOC Coordinator Irshad Sodhar. Representatives from the WHO, UNICEF, and other partner organizations were also present. The ceremony concluded with a tableau performance by children and the distribution of appreciation certificates to outstanding workers.