Sindh warns of 20,000 polio cases if campaign falters

Provincial govt vows to eliminate crippling disease by 2026

KARACHI:

The Sindh Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has cautioned that Pakistan could witness up to 20,000 new polio cases within the next three years if the ongoing anti-polio campaign is not sustained. The warning came during a ceremony held in connection with World Polio Day at the Najmuddin Auditorium of JPMC.

Speaking as the chief guest, Sindh Minister for Health and Population Welfare Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to eradicating polio from Sindh by 2026. "God willing, we will make Sindh polio-free by 2026," she declared, while paying tribute to polio workers who, she said, "leave their homes and families to serve the nation. "The event was attended by Health Secretary Rehan Baloch, representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partner organiSations. EOC Sindh Coordinator Irshad Sodhar presided over the ceremony.

In his remarks, Sodhar lauded polio workers as "frontline heroes" and proposed that October 24 - World Polio Day - be observed as Vaccine Day to honour their tireless efforts. "These workers brave sun, rain, heat, and floods - even travelling by boat to ensure every child receives the polio vaccine," he said.

Dr Pechuho appealed to parents to ensure their children receive polio drops, warning that even seemingly healthy children can carry and transmit the virus. She stressed that the government and its partners remain steadfast in their mission to eradicate the disease.

At the event, Dr Akhtar Abbas, a polio survivor, shared his inspiring story. Struck by polio at the age of three and a half, he overcame physical challenges to become an ultrasound specialist. "Those two drops are vital for every child's future," he said.

EOC representatives highlighted that when Pakistan launched its polio eradication campaign in 1988, there were over 350,000 reported cases. Thanks to sustained efforts, the number has now dropped dramatically.

"From 20,000 to just 20 cases - this is the result of consistent commitment," they said. However, they cautioned that if vaccination efforts weaken, international data suggests the number could again rise to 20,000 within three years.

During the event, Dr Pechuho also addressed other health-related matters. She clarified that JMPC remains under a lease from the federal government and dismissed rumours about its outsourcing. On dengue, she stated that only OPD cases are being reported, while the People's Primary Healthcare Initiative (PPHI) continues to strengthen services at dispensaries across Sindh.

Commenting on the issue of stray dogs, the minister said that administrative balance is needed as animal rights activists often intervene whenever culling operations are discussed.

Representatives from WHO and UNICEF reiterated the proven safety and effectiveness of vaccines, urging parents to administer polio drops to their children so Pakistan can finally be declared polio-free.