Thursday, July 4, 2024 06:38 PM
Dr. Malik Bharath Reacts to Third Polio Case
- Third polio case confirmed in Killa Abdullah district, Balochistan.
- Government intensifies efforts to ensure widespread polio vaccination coverage.
- Comprehensive investigation planned to identify source of poliovirus and containment strategies.
Image Credits: urdupointThe confirmation of the third polio case in Balochistan triggers intensified vaccination campaigns and a comprehensive investigation to contain the virus.
In the Killa Abdullah district of Balochistan, the third case of polio in 2024 has been officially confirmed. The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio at the National Institute of Health detected the presence of wild poliovirus type 1 in stool samples from a child residing in the Darozai union council. The child exhibited signs of paralysis on April 20, prompting concerns about the spread of the disease.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, expressed deep regret over this latest polio case. He emphasized the severe impact of polio on both the affected child and their family. Dr. Bharath also highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to make polio vaccinations easily accessible to all through door-to-door campaigns.
Families have been strongly advised to understand the risks associated with polio and ensure that all children under the age of five receive the vaccine during scheduled visits by healthcare workers. Dr. Shahzad Baig, the Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, announced plans for a comprehensive investigation to identify the source of the virus and implement containment strategies.
Throughout this year, multiple vaccination campaigns have been carried out to boost children's immunity, with more campaigns planned for the upcoming months. This recent case marks the third instance of polio in Balochistan for the year, with the previous case reported in Killa Abdullah three years ago. In 2023, a total of six polio cases were documented in the country, mainly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Karachi.
The confirmation of another polio case in Balochistan serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against this debilitating disease. It underscores the importance of vaccination campaigns and the collective responsibility to protect children from polio's harmful effects. By staying vigilant and ensuring widespread immunization, we can work towards a polio-free future for all.
