Ineffective polio drives

Pakistan has been conducting polio vaccination campaigns throughout this year, including targeted campaigns aimed at regions with wider immunity gaps. This steady journey has also seen multiple incidents of violence, where WHO officials have been kidnapped and police officers have been attacked and killed. Yet, despite the continuity of operations, Pakistan has failed to meet an adequate standard in eradicating this incurable disease. And Hyderabad has just confirmed its newest case, bringing the total tally of polio cases reported this year to 27.

The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) recently issued its latest report titled 'The Glass Mountain', highlighting global health efforts impacted by geopolitical shifts — a major one being the US withdrawal from WHO and the subsequent termination of USAID. While the report indicates that decisions grossly impacted polio eradication efforts, it also pinpoints Pakistan's systemic incohesion in producing results, taking ownership of the issue, optimising resources and utilising cross-organisational collaboration.

For the success of any long-term goal, it is sensible to consistently re-evaluate and, if needed, restructure the plan of action based on short-term results. If mere consistency in immunisation efforts is not bringing down the number of cases, then it is necessary for the government to inculcate broader steps for protection.

IMB has now suggested shifting responsibility for eradicating poliovirus in Pakistan and Afghanistan away from host countries and towards the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional (EMRO) Ministerial Polio Subcommittee. This decision is bound to benefit Pakistan in the longer run, both fiscally and socially. To be rid of polio once and for all should be the government's top-priority, and it also signals to the public that their health matters. Alongside, Pakistan must prioritise honest and accountable reporting, strengthen its coordination and restore the trust of larger structures that have tasked it with this goal.