What's happened
Pakistan is initiating a nationwide polio vaccination campaign starting October 28, 2024, aiming to immunize over 32 million children under five. This comes amid rising polio cases, with 41 reported this year, primarily in Balochistan and Sindh provinces. The campaign faces challenges from misinformation and violence against health workers.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Pakistan's Prime Minister's adviser for polio eradication, Ayesha Raza Farooq, emphasized the urgency of the campaign, stating, "We are re-energized in our efforts to combat polio." The report highlights the alarming increase in cases, particularly in Balochistan and Sindh, where misinformation and violence against health workers are significant barriers. In contrast, All Africa reported on a synchronized vaccination effort between Kenya and Uganda, showcasing a successful model of regional cooperation that Pakistan could emulate. This joint initiative aims to prevent cross-border virus transmission, underscoring the importance of collaborative health strategies in eradicating polio.
How we got here
Polio remains endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan, with both countries experiencing a resurgence in cases. Pakistan has recorded 41 polio cases in 2024, a significant increase from previous years. The Afghan Taliban's cessation of vaccination efforts has raised concerns about cross-border transmission.
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The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. The WHO Constitution, which establishes the agency's governing structure and principles, states its main objective as "the attainment
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Afghanistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country at the crossroads of Central and South Asia.
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Pakistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a country in South Asia. It is the world's fifth-most populous country with a population exceeding 212.2 million. It is the 33rd-largest country by area, spanning 881,913 square kilometres.
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Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is a Pakistani politician and businessman who is currently serving as the 23rd Prime Minister of Pakistan, in office since 11 April 2022. He is the current president of the Pakistan Muslim League.