1,300 children left unvaccinated in Gadoon

Swabi district missed polio campaigns thrice due to security concerns

SWABI: Around 261,873 children are meant to be vaccinated against polio in Swabi. The district missed inoculation campaigns thrice in a row due to security reasons. Officials said vaccination was suspended in Malikabad area of Gadoon due to security concerns and 1,300 children could not be vaccinated.

Officials said on Monday 650 teams and 1,700 personnel would take part in the drive, while police and paramilitary forces would provide security.

The Swabi deputy commissioner already imposed a ban on pillion riding.

Earlier this month, Swabi district missed the National Immunisation Drive (NID) for the third time due to security reasons as authorities across the province geared up for the inoculation campaign.

Officials at the time cited lack of security to hold separate campaigns in the district.

Police officials said security conditions had improved over time compared to the previous years.

However, delaying a nationwide campaign clearly suggested ground realities were different.

When contacted earlier, Swabi DHO Dr Niaz told The Express Tribune a majority of attacks on polio workers had taken place in Swabi.

Swabi Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) District Coordinator Dr Yaqoobwas also killed in an attack in November 2015.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 22^nd, 2016.