The Pakistan polyomyelitis eradication program paid tribute to polyomyelitis workers on Friday, recognizing their dedication and contributions in high -risk areas during a ceremony in Islamabad on Friday before International Women’s Day (March 8).
Health workers are at the forefront of the country’s polio eradication efforts, which constitutes more than 58.4% of the workforce of polyomyelitis. They play a main role in crucial inoculation impulses door by door, often working on some of the most challenging environments.
During the ceremony, Ayesha Raza Farooq, the focal person of the Prime Minister in Polio, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the workers.
“Today, while we commemorate International Women’s Day, I want to reaffirm our collective commitment to guarantee a safe, dignified and enabling environment for each top -line worker,” he said.
Farooq also highlighted the implementation of the Pakistan Polio Program of a policy against harassment, ensuring a safe and professional environment for workers.
The event brought together the national and provincial coordinators of the Polyomyelitis program, along with senior officials, and included video messages from frontline workers who shared their experiences.
Many talked about the challenges they face, such as convincing hesitant families of vaccinating their children, while proudly expressing their role in working towards a future free future.
Anwarul Haq, the main official of the National Center for Emergency Operations (NEOC), praised the dedication of workers and called them the “spine” of the eradication efforts of Pakistan’s polyomyelitis.
“This year’s theme deeply resonates with us at the National Emergency Operations Center, since we honor polyomyelitis workers who are considered the backbone of the eradication efforts of Pakistan’s polyomyelitis,” he said.
“These women work tirelessly, often in difficult and high risk areas, to ensure that each child receives the polyomyelitis vaccine that saves life,” he added.
Haq emphasized even more the importance of empowering women in public health roles. “His courage and unwavering commitment reflect the incredible strength of Pakistani women,” he said.
“Empowering them is not just about recognizing their contributions: it is about strengthening our communities and guaranteeing a healthier and polio free Pakistan,” he added.
Haq also emphasized the importance of gender sensitivity in public health, noting that supporting women in first -line health roles helps to build a more inclusive, resistant and prosperous society.
Pakistan recently concluded his first anti-political campaign at the national level of 2025, with authorities that reported six cases of polyomyelitis so far this year. Additional vaccination rounds are planned for April and May, since the country continues its efforts to eradicate the disease.
