AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, At a recent briefing organized by the National Emergency Operations Center for Polio Eradication, key stakeholders including donors and partner organizations gathered to discuss progress and strategies aimed at eliminating polio in Pakistan. The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) showcased its achievements and outlined ongoing challenges in the presence of significant international and national health leaders.
According to Press Information Department, Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, addressed the attendees, affirming Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating polio. He highlighted the extensive efforts of the largest polio eradication program in the world, supported by a widespread poliovirus surveillance network. Despite these efforts, the persistent detection of cases underscores the critical work that remains to protect every child.
Federal Health Secretary Mr. Nadeem Mahboob emphasized the Health Ministry’s full support for the polio program, expressing gratitude towards the international community for their unwavering support. NEOC Coordinator Dr. Shahzad Baig provided a detailed update on the epidemiological situation, noting plans to intensify vaccination efforts, particularly at borders and within under-reached communities, to foster trust and goodwill.
Representatives from major international health and development organizations, including WHO, UNICEF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary International, and others, reaffirmed their support for Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts. Ms. Melissa Corkum, UNICEF National Polio Team Lead, spoke on the urgent need for renewed collective efforts to prevent any setbacks in the near eradication of the disease.
WHO Representative in Pakistan, Dr. Luo Dapeng, stressed the global significance of polio eradication efforts in Pakistan, noting that sustained support from partners is crucial as the country nears the finish line of this long-standing public health battle.
The meeting served as a platform for strengthening collaborative efforts and ensuring that the momentum towards making Pakistan polio-free is maintained.