ISLAMABAD: Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in Pakistan Dr Palitha Mahipala visited Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for support, supervision and monitoring work on Saturday.

He also visited the point of entry at the Torkham border crossing to monitor the administration of polio drops to children.

On the occasion, he paid tribute to the frontline polio workers. “I’d like to pay tribute to frontline healthcare heroes who are working day and night in Torkham, battling polio even in the Covid-19 pandemic. Their resilience is praiseworthy,” he said.

He said his organisation was committed to assisting Pakistan in getting rid of polio. “WHO is committed to supporting the government of Pakistan to address the barriers to ending polio... We focus on integrating polio activities with essential health services and building closer partnerships with high-risk communities to better meet their health needs.”

Dr Mahipala was briefed on the ongoing activities at the Torkham border aimed at eradicating polio and on efforts to meet the challenges faced during vaccination campaigns.

Published in Dawn, September 5th, 2021