Collective Efforts Needed to Eradicate Polio from Pakistan

Pakistan reported 41 cases of polio in 2024, with Senator Rubina Khalid emphasizing that polio is a shared national responsibility that requires collective efforts to eradicate it. As the Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), she recalled that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched Pakistan's first anti-polio campaign in 1994, and a polio-free Pakistan was her dream. Senator Khalid reaffirmed BISP's commitment to supporting efforts against the disease, urging parents and guardians to ensure their children receive polio vaccinations.

Key Takeaways:

• Pakistan remains among the two countries where polio transmission has not yet been eliminated, with 41 cases reported in 2024.
• Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized the need for collective efforts to eradicate polio from Pakistan, terming it a shared national responsibility.
• Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched Pakistan's first anti-polio campaign in 1994, and a polio-free Pakistan was her dream.
• BISP has committed to supporting efforts against the disease, with Senator Khalid urging parents and guardians to ensure their children receive polio vaccinations.
• Frontline workers and partner organizations engaged in the national polio eradication campaign are crucial in ending the disease.
• On World Polio Day, Senator Khalid expressed solidarity with families affected by polio and pledged to stand with them.

Statistics:

• 41 cases of polio reported in Pakistan in 2024.
• Pakistan is among the two countries where polio transmission has not yet been eliminated.
• 1994 - Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched Pakistan's first anti-polio campaign.
• 2024 - Pakistan reported 41 cases of polio.

Sources:

• Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP)
• Personal statement by Senator Rubina Khalid on World Polio Day