PESHAWAR, July 28: Peshawar, Bannu, South Waziristan, Tank, North Waziristan, Bajaur, D I Khan, Khyber, Upper Dir and Fata have been identified as high-risk areas in respect of polio in the NWFP.

The information was given at a meeting of district coordination officers (DCOs) and representatives of the health department and the world Health Organisation (WHO) which was held to review progress in anti-polio programme here on Thursday. NWFP Chief Secretary Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi presided over the meeting.

The meeting was told that two polio cases, one each in Peshawar and Tank districts, had been detected this year.

The chief secretary said that polio cases had been considerably reduced but there was a need for more coordinated efforts to eradicate the crippling ailment from the province.

He appreciated the work done by all the concerned in achieving a breakthrough but, at the same time, expressed concern that the curse of polio was re-emerging. He said that health professionals could play role in creating awareness among masses.

On the occasion the chief secretary issued directives for making special efforts in high-risk areas o ensure that all the children below five years of age get vaccinated.

In these areas, he said, multi-pronged strategies should be adopted to involve general public in the campaign.

He pointed out that role of religious leaders, teachers and community elders could not be overlooked and their participation in the drive against polio could make marked difference.

He stressed on evolving a reward system for outstanding performance by the districts and agencies concerned.

He said the NWFP should continue to show excellent progress as was achieved in the recent past in the anti polio campaign.