LAHORE
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif Tuesday chaired a high level meeting to review the steps being taken to treat and control the AH1N1 influenza.
Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said the Health Department should remain alert to meet any emergency regarding any epidemic disease. He said every human life was precious and concerned departments should discharge their duties efficiently. He said sincere efforts were the responsibility of concerned institutions and departments. He said the Health Department should have taken timely and effective steps for eradication of seasonal flu. Shahbaz Sharif said the system for eradication of epidemic diseases should move automatically. He directed a vigorous campaign should be launched for creating awareness among the people about preventive measures and protection from seasonal flu. He said all necessary steps should be taken for eradication of seasonal flu according to the recommendations of the WHO. He said best treatment facilities should be ensured in the hospitals for the patients suffering from this disease. The CM said availability of medicines should be ensured at every cost and separate wards should be set up in the government hospitals for the treatment of patients suffering from seasonal flu. He said the Punjab government had given the biggest budget of the history of the province for public health sector therefore desired results should be achieved. Shahbaz Sharif directed to constitute an emergency committee, headed by Punjab government’s Advisor on Health Kh Salman Rafiq, and said the committee should hold meetings daily at 8am to review the situation of seasonal flu and take steps for treatment and eradication of the disease. The CM said he would personally monitor the steps being taken for treatment, preventive measures and eradication of seasonal flu. He said all-out resources should be utilised for the treatment and eradication of seasonal flu. He said awareness campaign regarding preventive measures should be continued and immediate implementation of the decisions should be ensured. Punjab government’s Advisor on Health Kh Salman Rafiq, Punjab government’s spokesman Zaeem Qadri, Chief Secretary Khizar Hayat Gondal, the Health secretary, the King Edward Medical University VC, the Punjab Health Services DG and other concerned officers were also present.
