The highly anticipated polio eradication campaign has commenced today in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, marking a significant step towards eliminating the devastating disease. The campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 1.8 million children under the age of five in Sindh, with the drive continuing until June 25th in key cities such as Hyderabad, Jamshoro, and Karachi, as well as seven districts. This massive effort involves the participation of over 10,000 dedicated polio workers and the deployment of 2,200 police personnel for enhanced security measures.
In parallel, several other regions are joining the cause, with Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, and Charsadda in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also initiating their polio eradication campaigns today. This synchronized approach amplifies the impact of the nationwide initiative and reinforces the commitment to a polio-free Pakistan.
Furthermore, recognizing the importance of safeguarding vulnerable communities, polio drops will be administered in Pak-Afghan refugee camps and specific union councils, extending the protective reach of the vaccination drive.
The scale of this endeavor necessitates robust security arrangements, and thus, a staggering 14,000 police personnel have been assigned to ensure the safety of the dedicated polio teams working tirelessly to achieve this crucial milestone.
By launching these comprehensive polio eradication campaigns, Pakistan is taking proactive measures to safeguard the health and future of its young population. With a united effort, the nation moves closer to a polio-free society, paving the way for a brighter and healthier tomorrow for all.