Zero-tolerance policy on polio, says chief secretary

Says govt needs public support to combat the disease

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Saeed has warned officials that negligence will not be tolerated in efforts to eradicate polio from the province.

He was presiding over a meeting of provincial task force on polio eradication at the Civil Secretariat on Friday.

He directed the deputy commissioners to spearhead activities being undertaken to eliminate polio in their districts and hold review meetings on a regular basis. He said that concerted and joint efforts are needed in this regard.

The chief secretary directed officials concerned to step up efforts for polio eradication. He warned that negligence will not be tolerated in this regard.

Saeed mentioned that the National Action Plan for polio eradication was being implemented in the province and international agencies had also acknowledged Punjab government's efforts.

“Public cooperation is of key importance in efforts to combat polio.” He added that all relevant departments should play an active role in enhancing public awareness about this crippling disease.

He said that there was need to work with national spirit to eradicate polio. He maintained that the provincial government was pursuing a comprehensive development plan and projects like Saaf Pani and Rural Sanitation aimed for the betterment of the people of rural areas.

Meanwhile, Primary Health Secretary Ali Jan told the meeting that eight polio cases, including one in Punjab's Lodhran district, were reported in the country in 2017.

He said that Rs100 billion will be spent for polio eradication in Punjab in next five years. He said that 1,700 polio workers had been hired while 2,300 more will be recruited to expedite anti-polio activities in the province.

On the occasion, Prime Minister's Focal Person for Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza said that polio eradication tops government's priorities.

“Our children are not safe unless polio virus exists in Pakistan. Polio eradication is a mission which will be completed at all cost.” She also lauded Punjab government's efforts in polio eradication.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2018.