ISLAMABAD: In a renewed effort to eradicate polio, stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to intensify immunisation efforts and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated, reinforcing their collective resolve to make Pakistan a polio-free nation.

This commitment was made during a meeting of the national polio management team, convened by the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) for Polio Eradication, whilst 14 cases of the crippling disease have been reported this year so far.

The session, chaired by Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq, brought together key stakeholders including national and provincial coordinators, the core team, Dr Zafar Iqbal Channa, FDI director technicaI, Trustee Rotary Foundation and Pakistan National Polio Plus Committee Chairman Aziz Memon, and representatives from various donor agencies.

According to a statement, the agenda included a national overview of current priorities, programme vision, and the strategic plan for supplemental immunisation activities (SIAs) for the rest of 2024. The discussions will integrate recommendations from the National Task Force, Technical Advisory Group, and Independent Monitoring Board.

Strategies refined to achieve the goal by mid-June 2025

In her address, Ms Farooq said: “This national polio management team meeting is a pivotal moment for us to critically assess our strategies and refine our approach. By learning from our experiences and aligning our efforts, we can achieve our goal of eliminating polio by mid-June 2025.

“At this crucial juncture, the unwavering commitment of the government, from the premier to chief ministers, and key agencies, is at an all-time high.

“As we move towards the forthcoming stock-take meeting chaired by the PM, it is indeed up to us now, how best we can benefit from the current momentum. Together, as ‘One Team,’ I am confident we will meet our commitments to both our nation and the global community.”

NEOC coordinator Anwarul Haq while highlighting the importance of united efforts said: “This national polio management team meeting underscores our shared commitment and strategic approach to eradicating polio. The collaborative efforts of the national and provincial teams are pivotal to achieving our final goal.”

Published in Dawn, August 11th, 2024