Much-needed: Anti-polio drive from September 29

EDO says 250 vaccination centres will be set up in the district

RAWALPINDI:

The health department will launch a five-day anti-polio vaccination drive in the entire district from September 29 and aim to vaccinate 711,744 children in the door-to-door campaign.     

Executive District Officer (EDO) Health Dr Zafar Iqbal Gondal said 1,408 polio teams will participate in the five-day drive. He said staff deployed for the campaign has been trained and briefed about the details to make the campaign a success.

The EDO said 250 vaccination centres will be set up in the district, adding that sufficient quantity of vaccine is available.

The health department officials have been directed to remain vigilant, particularly in those areas where poliovirus was found during last year’s campaign, said District Programme Coordinator Javaid Iqbal. He said the department has made all necessary arrangements for the campaign.

Iqbal urged citizens, particularly parents, to come forward and play their role for the elimination of the crippling disease.

“Parents should cooperate with special teams so the set target can be achieved,” he said, adding that continuous efforts were being made for polio eradication. Special teams have also been formed to cover areas from where complaints about unattended children are received, he stated further.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 26^th, 2014.