'Pakistan closer than ever to eradicating polio'
More than 200,000 frontline polio workers and supervisors will participate in a vaccination campaign targeting over 23.3 million children under the age of five across Punjab from April 13.
Addressing a ceremony on Thursday where the Punjab Emergency Operations Centre inaugurated the upcoming National Immunisation Days (NIDs), Provincial Minister for Health and Population Imran Nazeer said sustained efforts and effective strategies had brought Pakistan closer than ever to the final phase of polio eradication.
He urged parents to ensure that their children receive polio drops during every campaign.
In Lahore, identified as a high-risk reservoir district, the campaign will continue for seven days, while in the remaining districts it will be conducted over four days.
Chief Minister's Focal Person on Polio Uzma Kardar underscored the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. She described female polio workers as the backbone of the programme due to their dedication and extensive household outreach.
Punjab Health and Population Secretary Nadia Saqib highlighted government initiatives aimed at strengthening the healthcare system for curbing preventable diseases.
EOC Coordinator Adeel Tasawur, EOC Coordinator said preparations had been completed to ensure a high-quality campaign, particularly in high-risk and underserved areas.
Pakistan Paediatric Association General Secretary Dr Kaleem Ather highlighted that protection against polio is a fundamental right of every child. He emphasised the importance of continued efforts through healthcare facilities and digital platforms to raise awareness, and urged parents to reject misconceptions and ensure vaccination.
Girl Guides Provincial Commissioner Sarwat Hamid highlighted the vital role of youth volunteers in effectively engaging with parents and caregivers to build trust and improve vaccine acceptance.
Meanwhile, the Gujrat District Polio Eradication Committee (DPEC) reviewed arrangements for the upcoming polio vaccination campaign.
District Health Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr Syed Ataul Munim briefed the participants about the campaign.
He said the campaign would run from April 13 to 15, with April 16 designated as catch-up day.
During the drive, children will receive polio drops along with vitamin A supplements.
According to sources, a total of 457,259 children across the district are targeted for vaccination. To achieve this, 5,169 personnel will be deployed, including 122 stationed and 39 transit teams, forming a total of 4,616 field teams. The meeting was attended by officials of the district administration, health department and the World Health Organisation.
UHS results
Also on Thursday, the University of Health Sciences (UHS) announced the results of the Third Professional MBBS annual examinations, with an overall pass percentage of 93.15. A total of 5,347 candidates from 44 affiliated medical colleges across Punjab appeared in the examination. According to the results, 4,979 students were declared successful, while 366 failed.
Allama Iqbal Medical College Lahore student Ayesha Asif secured first position with 942 marks. Noor Sultan of Aziz Fatima Medical College Faisalabad stood second with 941 marks, while Masooma from Bakhtawar Amin Medical College Multan clinched third position with 933 marks. A spokesperson stated that the results were declared within three days of the conclusion of practical examinations.
With additional input from APP