Special anti-polio campaign begins in DI Khan today

DI KHAN: A special anti-polio campaign kicks off today across 53 union councils of Dera Ismail Khan, aiming to immunise 372,627 children under the age of five against the crippling disease.

To ensure the success of the campaign, 2,269 experienced health personnel have been deployed across the district. Authorities have confirmed that comprehensive security arrangements are in place for the protection of polio workers and health teams.

Also read: Polio campaign postponed in nine Punjab districts due to floods

Speaking on the occasion, DI Khan Deputy Commissioner highlighted the national importance of the drive, saying, “A polio-free Pakistan is not only a matter of national pride but also essential for securing a safe future for our children.” He highlighted the severity of the disease, calling polio a “devastating illness that can leave children with lifelong disabilities.”

Despite the persistent challenges faced in previous campaigns, he praised the dedication of field workers. “Our polio teams and workers are the real heroes. Their courage and commitment are commendable,” he said.

In an appeal to the community, the Deputy Commissioner urged parents to ensure their children receive the polio drops, stressing that vaccination is compulsory. He also called on religious scholars and community leaders to spread awareness and encourage participation.

Earlier, a special awareness session was also held at Gomal Medical College as part of the awareness efforts. It was attended by the Additional Deputy Commissioner General, Assistant Commissioners, and senior Health Officers.

The administration reiterated its commitment to work “with unity and responsibility” to eradicate polio from the district completely.

POLIO CASES TALLY CONTINUES TO RISE

Meanwhile, according to the latest National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) data, the total number of polio cases reported this year has increased to 23.

In response to the rising number of cases, the NEOC had announced the launch of a nationwide polio vaccination campaign starting September 1. A separate, focused drive is also being carried out in the southern parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from September 15 (today), where the virus remains more prevalent.

Also read: National tally reaches 23 with two more polio cases

As part of the campaign, more than 28 million children under the age of five will be vaccinated across 99 high-risk districts. The NEOC has said that a high-quality campaign is also being conducted with rigorous monitoring and enhanced community engagement to halt the virus’s transmission.

Health authorities have urged parents to ensure their children receive the polio drops during the upcoming campaign and reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating the disease from the country.