Addressing the session of the Polio Eradication of 70th WHO Regional Committee meeting in Cairo, Federal Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan said that Pakistan has made great strides against polio and said Pakistan remains steadfastly committed to interrupt poliovirus circulation and join the ranks of polio-free countries. The Minister said that Pakistan Polio Program has taken concerted measures to improve campaign quality and vaccine uptake in the endemic districts such as fractional IPV campaigns to boost immunity and offering pluses such as soaps to promote hygiene. He further said through effective case response, Pakistan has prevented the virus from establishing circulation outside the endemic zone. All-age vaccination is being conducted on the Pakistan side along the Pak-Afghan border. In security compromised areas, alternate strategies are being employed such as ring-fencing vaccination and a special campaign to offer polio and routine immunization to children in 69 most vulnerable UCs of southern KP. Pakistan is committed to protecting its children from poliomyelitis and is also mindful of its obligations under the International Health Regulations. This commitment exists across the board, he said The Health Minister said that the Prime Minister has very recently chaired a meeting of the National Task Force and inaugurated a nationwide polio campaign. As per the GPEI Strategy 2022-2026, Pakistan has also started planning for transition, by collecting requisite data as per global standards such as physical verification of assets and HR data collection, the Minister said. The Minister appreciated the generous and continued support of all donors and partners to Pakistan as it fights this virus. ****************
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