QUETTA:Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal on Monday urged politicians, religious scholars, academia, civil society’s members, parents and media to use their influence with renewed determination by actively participating in the anti-polio campaign to help ensure a polio-free Pakistan in the near future.
Addressing a press conference after chairing a review meeting on polio eradication held here Mustafa Kamal stressed to intensifying polio eradication efforts aimed to vacinate the children against the crippling disease.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Capt. (Retd) Anwar Ul Haq, National Coordinator for Polio, Secretary Health Balochistan Mujeeb-Ur-Rehman Panezai, Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Coordinator Balochistan Inam Ul Haq, as well as representatives from, WHO, UNICEF, and provincial health authorities.
He warned that “if we do not take things seriously, Pakistan risks becoming the last country where polio persists as the virus is remain active in only two countries.”
Kamal mentioned that the Afghanistan will be polio-free country as the current Afghan government is running extensive door to door anti-polio campaign in all provinces to administer the anti-polio drops to children up to five years of age.
He pointed out that all Muslim countries and others around the world have eliminated polio by using the same vaccine currently being administered in Pakistan.
“Due to the widespread presence of the polio virus in the environment of all districts, it can attack children. To prevent this, it is essential that children receive both the polio drops,” he added.
Mustafa Kamal called the parents to administered vaccination, assuring them that these steps would help protect their families from lifelong disabilities and even death.
Syed Mustafa Kamal announced that no polio cases have been reported from Balochistan so far this year.
He credited the ongoing robust efforts under the leadership of the Prime Minister for the encouraging development.
Minister Kamal emphasized that both federal and provincial governments are united in their commitment to eradicating polio from Pakistan.
“Reject all negative narratives and ensure that every child is vaccinated,” he urged. “The entire nation must unite against polio, and our frontline polio workers are our true heroes.”
Mustafa praised the dedication and sacrifices of polio workers, adding that the nation salutes their unwavering efforts.
He said that despite the toughest weather conditions, polio workers have carried out their national duty with dedication and excellence, helping to control the epidemic.
The minister also called upon religious scholars, teachers, and community elders to actively support polio vaccination campaigns.
Highlighting the severity of the disease, Kamal noted that while cancer has treatment options, polio remains incurable. “The only prevention is vaccination,” he stressed.
“The polio vaccine is safe, effective, and thoroughly tested,” Kamal said, encouraging parents to trust the science and cooperate with health workers. “Every member of society must play their part in the polio campaign. The future of our children depends on the decisions we make today.”
He concluded by urging citizens to take personal responsibility by ensuring children in their communities are vaccinated. “Invite polio workers into your homes and make sure your children receive the dropsit’s a matter of national duty and our children’s future.”
