SWAT: Concerted efforts are being made in Swat valley of Malakand division to spread awareness about polio and on Saturday religious leaders joined in to help eradicate the crippling disease.
A polio awareness campaign is being run by the National Research and Development Organisation (NRDO), through public meetings and awareness sessions in Swat, Dir, Bunar and Shangla.
“If polio is not eradicated by 2012, Pakistan can face international travelling restrictions,” said Mufti Khalid Mahmood, a renowned religious scholar in Lower Dir while talking to the media.
Members of the NRDO and religious leaders added that eradication of the polio virus is a national and religious responsibility. “The public as well as the Ulema must play their role in its eradication,” Mahmood said.
He said the polio virus has already been eliminated from the entire world except four countries, including Pakistan. “Unfortunately, the number of polio-affected children has reached a record level of 189,” he said, adding that Ulema should step forward and play their role in eradicating the virus. “They (Ulema) should motivate the public through their Friday sermons,” he suggested.
Mahmood also urged local jirgas to raise awareness, citing their importance as a public platform in villages.
Meanwhile, a polio awareness session was held at the Amankot mosque, attended by a large number of locals. Addressing the session, Afareen Khan, the NRDO district coordinator, said “I appeal to all the people to inoculate their children for a healthy and bright future.”
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Better late than never - there is no reasonable reason why all children cannot be vaccinated against this terrible disease in the 21st century.
Where are all our anti-religious liberal pakistani brothers and sisters? Not a word for appreciation? May be thats our problem, we shout out loud against negatives but opt to keep silent for positives!