Boycotts threatening timely vaccine delivery

QUETTA:

The eagerly-anticipated anti-polio campaign in Balochistan, now set to commence on December 30, has faced repeated delays due to a boycott by the Grand Health Alliance (GHA).

Initially scheduled for December 16, the campaign was postponed twice, with an interim start date of December 18, before being rescheduled.

Balochistan Emergency Operation Cell (EOC) Coordinator Inamul Haq underscored the campaign's importance in combating the widespread presence of the poliovirus in the province, which has reported over 24 cases this year. During a preparatory meeting, he highlighted the need for meticulous micro-planning, comprehensive team training, and stronger community engagement to ensure the campaign's success.

The ongoing GHA boycott, however, has significantly disrupted preparations. Dr Bahar Shah, Chairman of GHA, has criticised government policies, such as contract-based appointments for doctors, privatisation of government hospitals, and delegating health decisions to administrative officers at the district level.

He argued that these measures undermine healthcare quality and hinder efforts to address public health crises like polio.

Health experts have expressed alarm over the delays, warning that they could lead to a surge in infections and further strain the province's fragile health infrastructure. They have called for urgent action to resolve the GHA's concerns and ensure the timely implementation of the campaign to safeguard children from the crippling disease.

The repeated setbacks highlight the pressing need for cohesive efforts to prioritise health initiatives and protect vulnerable populations in the region.