To achieve the goal of “Polio Free Pakistan” WHO has escalated its efforts to many folds. It has renewed Polio eradication campaign all over Pakistan with full commitment. Keeping the current pandemic in view, WHO Pakistan has modified the strategic and operational plan of Polio Campaigns and provided the teams with masks and hand sanitizers.
WHO Pakistan Representative, Dr Palitha Mahipala along with Deputy Team Lead Polio, Dr Ibrahim Yalahow visited Mirpur in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). During the visit, Dr Mahipala met Permanent Transit Team (PTP) of Polio and observed working of the team. The team briefed Dr Mahipala about the hurdles in the field during vaccine drives and socio-culture barriers to immunization, myths and misconceptions marring polio campaigns.
Understanding the critical situation regarding Polio and to accelerate the efforts to carry out vaccine campaigns in time, Dr Mahipala inaugurated Sub National Immunization Days (SNIDs) of October 2020 at Mangla PTP, Mirpur. Speaking on the occasion Dr Mahipala said “Our aim is to find every single child under the age of five years and vaccinate him against Polio. Our support is with the Government of Pakistan to eradicate this crippling disease. I am optimistic that day is not far when Pakistan will be Polio-Free and we will be celebrating that victory. But to achieve this milestone we need the support of Pakistani people”
During the meeting with Secretary Health AJK, Maj. Gen. Ahsan Satti, WHO Representative acknowledged the services provided by National Health Care workers during COVID-19 and remarked that Polio workers are our front line warriors who are waging the war fiercely against the Polio. He continued that they are standing steadfast in their positions, performing their duties with courage and deserve plaudits for carrying out the campaigns in these uncertain times. WHO realizes the critical role of health providers and practitioners as they are the beacon of hope for many who are in despair due to pandemic.
WHO Representative handed over emergency supplies worth 4.04 Million PKR to Mr Satti for AJK province. The donation included cardiac monitors, oxygen concentrators, resuscitation kits, suction machines, hand sanitizers, face mask, surgical cap/gown, googles etc. The secretary health AJ&K extended his gratitude to Dr Mahipala for the incessant support to Pakistan during the pandemic and floods.