KHAR, Aug 17: Women vaccinators will not take part in the upcoming three-day polio campaign in Bajaur Agency for security reasons, according to local agency surgeon Dr Zakir Hussain.

“Only men will vaccinate children against polio in the agency during the three campaign beginning on Monday (Aug 19),” Dr Zakir told reporters here.

The agency surgeon said around 223,680 children would be vaccinated against polio during the campaign.

He said the local health deportment had finalised arrangements for the campaign with the support of local administration.

Dr Zakir said 628 teams had been formed for the campaign during which polio drops would be administered to 223,680 children of and under five years.

He said the local administration had taken all necessary measures for the security of vaccinators, who would be accompanied by Bajaur levies personnel, security officials and village defence committee members.

The agency surgeon said local elders, ulema, social activists and tribesmen completely supported the health department in the fight against polio.

He said the department was committed to eradicating polio from the agency and that several teams had been formed to monitor the activities of the health teams during the campaign.

Dr Zakir said efforts were also underway to reduce the cases of vaccination refusal and missed cases.