CS for coordinated strategy to implement vaccination drive

PESHAWAR: Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah on Wednesday said that protecting children from measles, rubella and polio remains a top priority for the government and that these campaigns would be successfully implemented through a coordinated strategy.He was presiding over a review meeting of the ongoing measles and rubella vaccination campaign and preparations for the upcoming polio drive.

The meeting was attended by the secretary Health, provincial coordinator EOC, and other senior officials. Deputy Commissioners and District Health Officers participated via video link.During the briefing, officials reported that the national measles and rubella vaccination campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is progressing successfully, with over 1.2 million children vaccinated in the first three days of the campaign. The drive is targeting children aged six months to five years across 37 districts from November 17 to 29. In selected districts, polio drops are also being administered simultaneously. Vaccines are available at government health centers, selected temporary sites, schools, and madrasas.

Preparations for the December polio campaign were also reviewed. Officials informed the meeting that by December 10, all districts would complete preparations and submit reports, ensuring a coordinated and effective polio drive. The campaign is scheduled to begin on December 15, and preparatory activities have already started.