Polio emergency

This letter refers to the editorial ‘Polio problem’ (March 3, 2025). The editorial justifiably mentions that to eradicate polio in Pakistan, a zero-tolerance policy towards violence against polio workers, multi-pronged strategies and an uncompromising approach is essential. The persistence of polio is not just a health crisis but a national shame, and it demands immediate, decisive action.

Pakistan has the resources, experience, and international support to eradicate polio. What it lacks is urgency and accountability. The government, civil society, and citizens must unite to protect future generations from this preventable disease. Polio must be eradicated now, or it will continue to cripple the nation’s progress and reputation. The world has defeated polio; Pakistan can and must do the same.

Air Cdre (r) M Khalid Kamal

Islamabad