KARACHI, March 8: Showing that he was ready to lead from the front the latest initiative against polio, the governor of Sindh visited the Sobhraj Maternity Home
, the Government Hospital Gizri and the Sindh Government Qatar Hospital on Monday to administer polio drops to some children there.
On his visits Governor Ishratul Ibad was accompanied by Dr Khalif Bile Mohammad, the WHO's representative to Pakistan, Noman Saigal, the chief minister's adviser on health, and Ashique Hussein Memon, the health secretary, besides senior officials from the provincial government, WHO and Unicef.
In his brief speech at the Qatar Hospital, Dr Khalif Bile Mohammad pointed out that some six months ago, Sindh languished at the bottom of the table in terms of performance against the killer polio virus. "Today, however, I am happy to tell you that the province is at the top," said the WHO's representative to Pakistan.
He revealed that this year five cases of polio had been reported in the country so far. Two of the cases were reported in the NWFP and three in Punjab. No case was reported in Sindh.
He attributed the successes against polio to the efforts put in by Governor Ishratul Ibad himself. "I thank you for your help in this campaign." In his speech, the governor remarked that it was not the provincial government that was helping the WHO. "It is the other way round. You are helping us and we should be thankful to you."
He reiterate his commitment to help make the province, as well as the country, polio-free by the end of this year. A passionate appeal was made by him to the parents of children of 1 year or below to avail of every opportunity to get their sons and daughters vaccinated.
Dr Ishratul Ibad also maintained that his government accorded top priority to the health-care needs of women and children. He added that the situation had improved in the province due to a cohesive approach. He appreciated the role played in this regard by the nazims and councillors.
He also acknowledged the support extended by the WHO and Unicef, adding that the visible change in Sindh was an outcome of political commitment plus the concerted efforts on part of workers associated with the health department.
Noman Saigal, the provincial health adviser, on the occasion underscored the need for close coordination between the city government and provincial and federal health departments to help the country get rid of polio.
He assured the officers present that they could approach him whenever they wanted to. "I am there for you. If you need my help, please come to my office and I assure that you will not be disappointed."
Health Secretary Ashiq Hussein Memon was of the opinion that the tide had turned vis-a-vis polio because of commitment on part of the EDOs of all the districts and health care providers associated with his department.
Later, a walk was organized near the Quaid-i-Azam's mausoleum to create awareness about the latest round of anti-polio drive which was kicked off on Monday by the governor.
The walk was led by the chief minister's adviser on health. Noman Saigal also made a short speech on the occasion. Some 300 people took part in the walk.
