Elders vow to support polio eradication efforts

LANDIKOTAL: Tribal elders, religious leaders and residents were briefed on the importance of supporting the upcoming anti-polio campaign to protect children from the crippling virus.

A community sensitization session on polio eradication was held in Landikotal.

A number of tribal elders, religious leaders, community influencers and residents participated in the session to build awareness and mobilize public support for the upcoming anti-polio campaign.

The session arranged under the District Emergency Operation Centre Khyber with financial support from UNICEF was aimed at strengthening trust between health authorities and local communities at a time when polio remains a persistent threat to children’s health in Pakistan.

Welcoming participants, Union Council Communication Officer Usman said the fight against polio was not the responsibility of the government or health workers alone but a collective duty of the entire society members to play their due role against the lethal virus.

“Every child must be protected from this lifelong disability. All stakeholders have to play a role to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated,” Usman stressed.

Highlighting preparations for the upcoming campaign, Tehsil Communication Officer for District Khyber, Said Afzal Shinwari said the polio eradication campaign starting from September 1 would continue for one week.