Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Friday said the safety of mothers and children through proper immunisation and better nutrition is a major priority for the government.
Talking to a high-level mission of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) led by CEO Dr. Seth Berkley at the PM House the Prime Minister said that immunisation is an important area and all the provincial governments had been directed for effective measures.
According to a PM office statement, the Prime Minister said parts of the country lagging behind in immunisation were brought at par with developed areas.
He appreciated the support lent by GAVI for immunisation in Pakistan. He stressed maximum use of the support being provided by GAVI to save future generations.
The delegation appreciated the personal interest taken by the Prime Minister and the active role played by the Health Ministry in taking steps for the implementation of polio eradication program as well as in focusing on routine immunisation.
They also appreciated the Punjab government for targeting 80 per cent coverage in routine immunisation in province by year’s end.
Federal Minister for Health Saira Afzal Tarar informed the Prime Minister that the confusion regarding procurement of vaccines in the aftermath of 18th amendment had recently been cleared and now the federal government would procure the vaccines through a National Procurement Committee having representatives from all the provinces.
She said this would not only streamline the system but also save Rs. 1 billion annually.
Talking about the polio eradication initiative, she said a concrete and robust plan had been put in place and its proper implementation would bring about drastic reduction in polio cases.
The WHO representative informed the meeting that 25 per cent reduction can be brought about in child mortality in Pakistan through immunization and 30 per cent cases of child mortality can be prevented through better nutrition.
The Prime Minister said these two are closely linked to each other and concerned provincial government departments should work in coordination with the Ministry of Health to overcome the challenges.
He said international best practices should be replicated in Pakistan to achieve better results.
The delegation appreciated the ministry of health for taking the bold step of increasing tobacco health warnings.