The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) strongly condemns the terrorist attack on a security personnel member deployed in support of the ongoing April nationwide polio vaccination campaign in District Hangu yesterday.
“We strongly condemn this unjustified attack on those who are protecting our children’s future. The martyrdom of a police official on 13 April is a profound loss and a painful reminder of the risks faced by our security personnel and frontline workers. The Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) extends its deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with the families of the martyred and injured, and with all law enforcement and frontline workers committed to this national cause.”
— Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication
Law enforcement agencies continue to demonstrate exceptional courage and unwavering commitment in safeguarding frontline health workers conducting door-to-door vaccination across the country. PEI reaffirms its full support for these agencies and acknowledges their bravery in ensuring that polio eradication efforts continue despite serious threats.
Note for the Editor:
Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by poliovirus mainly affecting children under the age of five years. It invades the nervous system and can cause paralysis or even death. While there is no cure for polio, vaccination is the most effective way to protect children from this disease. Each time a child under the age of five is vaccinated, their protection against the virus is increased. Repeated immunisations have protected millions of children from polio, allowing almost all countries in the world to become polio-free, besides the two endemic countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan.
For further information, please contact: Mr. Syed Farhan Shah, Public Relations Officer, NEOC, +923165011808, syed.farhanshah1990@gmail.com