KPCS Completes Polio Eradication Plan D.I.Khan and Bannu

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Intensifies Polio Eradication Efforts in Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu

In a significant step towards polio eradication, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Secretary, Shahab Ali Shah, has officially approved comprehensive district-level action plans aimed at combating the disease in the Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu divisions. These meticulously crafted plans are set to be implemented from August to December 2025, demonstrating a proactive and long-term commitment to safeguarding the health of the region’s children.

Collaborative Strategy for Polio Prevention

The approval of these crucial action plans followed an intensive two-day session that convened key stakeholders, including deputy commissioners, from the targeted districts. This collaborative environment fostered a comprehensive approach to polio prevention, ensuring that all aspects of the eradication campaign are carefully considered and coordinated.

Key Components of the Action Plans:

• Targeted Immunization Campaigns: Strategic immunization drives will be conducted to reach every child in the Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu divisions, with a particular focus on underserved and high-risk populations.
• Enhanced Surveillance: Robust surveillance systems will be implemented to detect and respond to any potential polio cases swiftly. This includes monitoring environmental samples and investigating reports of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP).
• Community Engagement: Recognizing the vital role of community involvement, the plans emphasize active engagement with local leaders, religious figures, and community health workers to raise awareness about the importance of polio vaccination and address any misconceptions or concerns.
• Logistics and Resource Management: Efficient logistics and resource management are essential for the successful implementation of the action plans. This includes ensuring the availability of vaccines, cold chain equipment, and transportation for vaccination teams.

Focus on Reaching Every Child

The core objective of these action plans is to ensure that every child in the targeted regions receives the necessary polio vaccinations. By implementing these strategies, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government aims to create a polio-free environment and protect future generations from this debilitating disease.

Sustained Commitment to Polio Eradication

The approval of these district-level action plans demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to eradicating polio. By working collaboratively with local communities, healthcare professionals, and international partners, the province is determined to achieve a polio-free future.