Cricket match organized to raise awareness on routine immunization, polio

Syed Sibte Hassan Rizvi

KARACHI: A cricket match was held at the Star Cricket Ground in UC-2 Muslimabad, Landhi Town, on Monday to promote routine immunization (EPI) and raise awareness polio.

The event, organized by the District Malir DHO Office and the provincial EPI office, attracted various stakeholders and community members from across Karachi.

The match featured four teams: district polio, district EPI, provincial polio, and provincial EPI. The district EPI team emerged victorious in the final round, defeating the provincial EPI team by 80 runs.

Dr. Muhammad Naeem, Project Director EPI, said the event aimed to create a friendly environment and engage communities in healthy programs. He expressed his hope that the initiative would contribute to a healthier Pakistan where all children can play cricket without the fear of disease.

Dr. Sohail Shaikh, Additional Project Director EPI, emphasized the significance of eradicating polio and making it a top priority alongside routine immunization. Dr. Ahmed Ali Shaikh, Technical Focal Person EOC Sindh, reiterated the commitment to polio eradication and underscored the importance of routine immunization in achieving this goal.

Dr. Capt (Rtd) Muhammad Saeed Laghari, Deputy Commissioner District Malir, highlighted the role of communities as the main stakeholders and expressed his optimism that with the support of district health teams, polio and routine immunization coverage could be improved.

Dr. Imdad Ali, DHO Malir, praised the cricket match as a successful platform to reach the local community and create awareness. He also appreciated the participation of DHOs from South, Korangi, Central, WHO, UNICEF, IRD, Impetus, AKU, Dr. Essa Lab partners, local influencers, community leaders, UC chairman and Nazim, and cricket enthusiasts.

The event concluded with the distribution of trophies, certificates, and awards, celebrating the collaborative efforts towards a healthier and polio-free community.