Hyderabad District Polio Eradication Committee Meeting

In a significant move towards eradicating polio, the Deputy Commissioner of Hyderabad, Zain ul Aabdinn Memon, recently chaired a meeting of the district polio eradication committee. This meeting was convened to discuss the preparations for the upcoming polio vaccination campaign scheduled from December 16 to December 22, 2024. The campaign aims to protect children under the age of five from this debilitating disease, which can lead to lifelong disabilities.

During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive strategy to eliminate polio. He highlighted the need to focus on areas with high refusal rates, where parents may be hesitant to vaccinate their children. Memon stated, "It will be a significant achievement if we can successfully motivate parents in these risky areas to allow their children to receive the vaccine." This proactive approach is crucial, as the success of the campaign largely depends on community cooperation.

Moreover, the Deputy Commissioner urged the relevant authorities to avoid any instances of fake marking during the vaccination process. He praised the efforts of the officers from Latifabad and Qasimabad Talukas for their commendable performance in previous campaigns. Their dedication is vital in ensuring that every child receives the necessary protection against polio.

In addition to the polio campaign, the meeting also reviewed the ongoing protective vaccination initiative known as "Big Catch Up." The health department officials were directed to implement necessary measures, including fumigation, to prevent the spread of diseases like Dengue and Malaria. This holistic approach to public health is essential in safeguarding the well-being of the community.

Dr. Jamshed Khanzada, the N Stop officer of the District eradication committee, informed the attendees that over 500,000 children would be targeted for polio vaccination. To achieve this, a robust team has been assembled, consisting of 1,550 mobile teams, 160 fixed teams, and 85 transit teams. Additionally, 387 area in-charges and 122 Union Council Members (UCMs) will be actively involved in the campaign.

The presence of Assistant Commissioners from four talukas, along with the District Health Officer of Hyderabad and other officials, underscores the collaborative effort required to combat polio effectively. This meeting serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the health of our children and ensure a polio-free future.

The upcoming polio vaccination campaign is not just a health initiative; it is a commitment to the future of our children. By working together and addressing the concerns of parents, we can create a safer environment for the next generation. It is imperative that we all play our part in this crucial mission, as every child deserves the right to a healthy life free from the threat of polio.