MoU signed on eradicating polio from country

LAHORE:The Punjab Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and the Lahore Press Club (LPC) have reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating polio from Pakistan.

The two institutions highlighted the critical importance of sustained media engagement in dispelling misinformation, promoting vaccine acceptance, and ensuring every child receives life-saving immunisation.

The reaffirmation came during a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony held at the Lahore Press Club, where stakeholders from the media and health sectors pledged collaborative efforts to advance public health goals, with a special focus on polio eradication.

Speaking at the event, Uzma Kardar, Chief Minister’s Focal Person on Polio, emphasised the role of the media as an essential ally in the fight against vaccine-preventable diseases. ‘Media is not just a source of information — it is a force for change,’ said Ms Kardar. ‘We are committed to working closely with journalists and media platforms to ensure that accurate, timely, and factual information about polio vaccination reaches every corner of the province. Together, we can counter myths, confront misinformation, and help parents to make decisions for their children’s future.’

Adeel Tasawur, Coordinator of the Punjab Emergency Operations Centre, said: ‘The media is one of our strongest partners in this fight. We rely on their reach and credibility to break down resistance, share facts, and encourage families to vaccinate their children.’

He added, ‘Our frontline polio workers are the backbone of this campaign. With the support of the media and civil society, we can ensure they are welcomed into every home and empowered to do their jobs safely and effectively.’

Uzma Kardar also praised the frontline polio workers, the leadership of the health department and the provincial administration for making swift, evidence-based decisions to contain virus transmission.

Arshad Ansari, President of the Lahore Press Club, pledged full media support to the anti-polio drive. ‘The Lahore Press Club and its members are fully aligned with the goal of a polio-free Pakistan.’ He reiterated media’s commitment to supporting both government agencies and field teams. ‘We stand with polio workers and will amplify their efforts to ensure every child is vaccinated.’