It is heartening to see that polio workers are dedicated to the cause and campaign commenced successfully
HYDERABAD: Polio is a disease that is still actively transmitted in only three countries of the entire world, namely Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria. Despite extensive efforts, and a relative drop in the number of polio cases in early 2000s, Pakistan had the highest number of polio cases in 2014. This was a dark time for Pakistan where polio workers were being targeted and risked their lives while conducting door-to-door vaccination campaigns.
It is heartening to see that polio workers are still dedicated to the cause and the nationwide vaccination campaign has commenced successfully, targeting millions of children. The continuous campaigns in the past few years have proved to be successful as only 18 cases were diagnosed throughout the country in the past year — a relatively low count for Pakistan.
It is estimated that this year’s campaign will reduce the number further, and eventually, the disease will be eradicated from the country entirely. The active approach of the provincial governments towards the disease, and the provision of adequate security to polio workers are greatly appreciated by the citizens. We hope to see a polio-free Pakistan soon!
Shiraaz Ahmed
Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2019.
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