The National Polio Management Team held an important meeting under the chairmanship of Prime Minister's Focalperson for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq in Islamabad on Monday. The meeting reviewed Pakistan's progress in the fight against polio and discuss future strategies for eliminating the disease. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including coordinators of the National and Provincial Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).

Participants carried out a detailed review of the progress made so far towards eradicating polio from the country and discussed key priorities for the coming months. The participants agreed on the need for coordinated, time-bound measures to further accelerate the country's progress towards complete polio eradication.  Special emphasis was placed on strengthening and speeding up targeted vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas to ensure that every child is protected against the virus. 

During the meeting, officials also discussed the future roadmap and strategic priorities for the national polio program. The focus remained on improving the effectiveness of field operations, enhancing coordination among all stakeholders, and ensuring timely implementation of vaccination activities. Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister's Focal Person for Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan's commitment to completely eliminating polio from the country. She said that while the progress made against polio is encouraging, the mission is not yet complete. 

She stressed that ensuring access to the polio vaccine for every child remains the government's highest priority. She added that the country has reached a decisive stage in the fight against polio, leaving no room for negligence or complacency at any level. Ayesha Raza Farooq also noted that available resources are limited and must be used efficiently and according to priority. She emphasized that effective planning, targeted interventions, and the optimal use of resources are essential to achieving the goal of a polio-free Pakistan.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)