Karachi: Deputy Commissioner, District Central, Dr Syed Saif-ur-Rehman directed officials to ensure marking of doors and fingers of children following the administration of anti-polio vaccines in order to minimize chances of missing out any children.
“Elimination of Polio from Pakistan is the top most priority of the Government” stated Dr Saif. He also said that Polio immunization teams must prepare accurate case reports on the field with actual, calculated figures. He encouraged teams to work diligently and reach out to all areas as soon as possible so as to improve overall performance and to prevent further spread of the disease.
He shared these views while presiding over a meeting of the District Polio Eradication Committee (DPEC) held at his office earlier this week. The meeting was attended by SSP Capt Chaudary Muhammad Asad Ali, Assistant Commissioners, Union Council Officer, Town Health Officers and other relevant officials. The participants suggested different measures that can be implemented to improve the national anti-polio campaign, and to strengthen routine EPI in the district.
He said that a 3-day anti-Polio drive will commence from the 10th November in District Central, for which all arrangements and micro-plans have been finalized. Appreciating the cooperation and support of District Police, DC Central highlighted their role in convincing all adults and families to have their children under the age of five years, vaccinated against Polio.
"We can still handle and improve the situation but if any team member showed slackness then it will be a challenge to eradicate polio from the district and city. All officers are putting in commendable efforts owing to which district central is no longer a reservoir for Polio virus, despite the fact that it is adjacent to Polio affected areas like Manghopir, SITE and Gadap. In continuation of these efforts, senior officers should be present first in office or field to ensure correct marking on doors and fingers of children vaccinated," Dr. Syed Saif stated.
He said that the World Health Organization (WHO) has appreciated the performance and planning of District Central Officials to address the refusal issue and improve quality of campaign. The Organization has recommended these efforts and strategies to the concerned authorities/officials of other districts to achieve similar results. Dr Saif said, "This (recognition and appreciation by the WHO) is an honor and moment of joy for all of us."
DC District Central urged officials to engage Pakhtoon workers in Pakhtoon localities to get better results. "All religious leaders and clerks should be requested to talk about polio in their Jumma speeches to create awareness among masses," he said.
SSP Capt Chaudary Muhammad Asad Ali said that the Police have played an integral role in providing security to polio workers for smooth completion of campaign. All teams will be provided fool proof security during the forthcoming campaigns as well. Chief Minister Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah has already issued directives to provide services of the Special Forces for the security of polio teams on field.