PM Shehbaz Launches National Anti-Polio Drive, Urges Public Cooperation

PM Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday inaugurated a seven-day nationwide anti-polio campaign by administering drops to children, reiterating the government’s resolve to eliminate polio from Pakistan.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Prime Minister called on parents across the country to cooperate with polio workers to ensure every child is vaccinated. “With collective efforts, we can make Pakistan a polio-free country,” he said, emphasizing the importance of community participation.

He assured that effective security measures are in place to protect polio teams during the campaign. The Prime Minister also stressed the role of awareness and public engagement in completely eradicating the disease.

Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to global partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, for their continued support in Pakistan’s fight against polio.

Earlier, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal raised concerns over Pakistan lagging behind Afghanistan in eradicating polio. Speaking at the 6th International Medical Research Conference in Karachi, Kamal noted that Afghanistan might eliminate the virus before Pakistan if swift action is not taken.

He also highlighted challenges in healthcare infrastructure, pointing out that tertiary care hospitals are overburdened due to weaknesses in primary and secondary health services. Kamal urged the use of mobile technology to bridge healthcare gaps and improve implementation of medical research in the country.