Balochistan’s anti-polio drive amid recent outbreak begins today

QUETTA: In response to the re-emergence of two polio cases in Balochistan after a three-year hiatus, health authorities have sounded the alarm, urging the populace to participate in the anti-polio vaccination campaign set to commence on Monday (today) across 11 districts of Balochistan.

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Despite significant strides made in combating polio, the recent resurgence of cases serves as a worrisome reminder of the enduring threat posed by this crippling ailment. In a collaborative effort, the Emergency Operations Center Balochistan, alongside health partners, is spearheading an extensive vaccination initiative aimed at administering two doses of the polio vaccine to every child below the age of five.

The campaign will be aiming to reach the children residing in Chaman, Dera Bugti, Hub, Lasbela, Nasirabad, Sibi, Jaffarabad, Kech, Khuzdar, Usta Muhammad, and Sobhatpur. Approximately 889,656 children are slated to receive vaccinations, with a deployment of some 3,378 teams, including 2,641 mobile units, 306 fixed-site teams, and 228 transit points.

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Provincial Coordinator of the Emergency Operations Center Balochistan Syed Zahid Shah said, “The recent polio cases in Balochistan serve as a stark reminder that our efforts are far from complete. We implore all parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive vaccinations during this campaign to safeguard their health and curtail the spread of the poliovirus.”

The polio vaccine, proven to be both safe and effective, is deemed indispensable in the global crusade to eradicate polio once and for all.