Punjab polio head warns low-performing officials of strict action

LAHORE: Punjab Polio Programme Head and the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Coordinator Khizar Afzaal has warned the health officials showing consistently poor performance in the polio campaigns of strict action.
During a meeting with District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) from 15 districts, Mr Afzaal underscored the gravity of the polio situation in the province. 
The districts included Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Attock, Chakwal, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Okara, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala.
A special immunisation campaign beginning from 9th September, targets the vaccination of 13.9 million children across these districts, running for seven days in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, and for five days in the remaining ones.
Mr Afzaal pointed out that Punjab reported its first polio case in August, with positive environmental samples signalling the presence of unvaccinated children in the province. 
He said the widespread circulation of the virus indicates that no area is safe, placing children at greater risk.
Given these concerns, he warned that officials who exhibit repeatedly poor performance during polio campaigns will face strict disciplinary action.