A week-long anti-polio campaign will begin on Monay, December 16, aiming to vaccinate 10.6 million children across Sindh. The initiative, which will run until December 22, 2024, seeks to eliminate the polio virus by ensuring that every child receives the essential vaccine. To achieve this ambitious target, 80,000 frontline workers will be deployed to go door-to-door throughout the province. In addition to this, 15,000 security personnel will be stationed across Sindh to provide a secure environment for the vaccination teams, ensuring their safety while they carry out their crucial work. Urgency of the campaign is underscored by the fact that 63 children in Pakistan, including 17 in Sindh, have been affected by polio this year. Environmental samples continue to test positive for the virus, signaling that its circulation remains a serious concern. The final campaign of the year is seen as a critical opportunity to prevent further transmission and protect children from the debilitating effects of polio. Parents and caregivers are strongly encouraged to cooperate with vaccination teams and ensure that their children receive all necessary doses of the vaccine. The repeated doses are essential for building strong immunity against the virus, making it crucial to vaccinate every child during this drive. The Sindh Health Department has emphasized the importance of this campaign in stopping the spread of polio and protecting future generations from a lifetime of disability.
