Just recently, India eradicated polio. Despite having overpopulated slums where poverty sustains, the campaigns were successful and reached every child. Pakistan still remains in the league of polio affected three countries of the world. World Health Organisation (WHO) has clarified rumours that the vaccine being used to eradicate polio globally is verified and checked by the WHO and it has nothing to do with any type of transmission to any child.
Polio is contagious and can be transmitted to anyone at any age. Just like terrorism and weapons, polio is said to have been most likely spread from Pakistan to China and Afghanistan.
It’s our dilemma that most of the western things benefitting mankind are linked to religious misconceptions. It’s not only happening in Fata, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and tribal areas opposing polio campaigns but a number of educated individuals are also showing resistance in cities.
China crossed the population mark of one billion, eradicated polio after conducting just four campaigns. This example is undeniable, proving the falseness of rumours about polio vaccines linked with infertility. In Pakistan more than hundred campaigns have been conducted but it still remains polio infected.
What’s keeping us away from the eradication of polio is the non seriousness and lack of accountability towards the campaigns. It’s ridiculous that children as young as seven years of age are hired for these campaigns on basis of nepotism. It has been more than eighteen years since Pakistan is battling against polio. It’s going to take a lot more than just campaigns, people need to realise that Pakistan has already earned negative reputation but supporting polio campaigns is something in the hands of a common man. Surely no parent wants to see their child handicapped by refusing just a few drops. Religious clerics need to show their support to polio campaigns.
ERUM ZEHRA
Karachi