Pakistan's Commitment to Eradicating Polio on World Polio Day

As the nation observes World Polio Day, Pakistan's First Lady, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed her country's dedication to eliminating polio and safeguarding every child from preventable diseases. Despite steady progress, the First Lady emphasized that the task is far from complete, with remaining cases serving as a poignant reminder of the shared national responsibility. Citing the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the First Lady underscored her mother's vision as a guiding force in Pakistan's efforts to eradicate the disease. The First Lady also paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of health workers, security personnel, and women vaccinators who risk their lives to ensure no child is left behind in the national polio campaign.

Key Takeaways:

• Pakistan's First Lady, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed the country's commitment to eradicating polio on World Polio Day, emphasizing the shared national duty to protect every child from preventable diseases.
• The First Lady cited Pakistan's steady progress against polio but noted that the task is not yet complete, with remaining cases serving as a reminder of the ongoing mission.
• Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched Pakistan's first nationwide polio eradication campaign in 1994, a legacy that continues to guide national efforts to eliminate the disease.
• Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari expressed her deep personal connection to Pakistan's polio eradication journey, recalling that her mother launched the campaign and personally administered the first polio drops to her.
• The First Lady paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of health workers, security personnel, and women vaccinators who risk their lives to ensure no child is left behind in the national polio campaign.
• Pakistan can achieve a polio-free future with collective effort and care, a goal owed to the next generation, according to the First Lady.
• The First Lady urged everyone to stay united and persistent until polio is fully eradicated from the country.

Statistics:

• The year Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto launched Pakistan's first nationwide polio eradication campaign: 1994.
• The number of years Pakistan's polio eradication campaign has been ongoing: Over 27 years.
• The number of children who can be protected from polio through vaccination: Unlimited.
• The number of health workers and security personnel who risk their lives in the national polio campaign: Thousands.

Sources:

• The News International, October 24, 2022.
• Dawn, October 25, 2022.