Federal Minister for Health Visits Gilgit-Baltistan to Oversee Polio Eradication Efforts
Gilgit, — Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, visited Gilgit-Baltistan following the confirmation of the year’s first polio case in Diamer district. The visit, undertaken on the special directives of the Prime Minister, aimed to review the polio situation and formulate strategic interventions for its eradication.
During the visit, the Federal Minister held a press conference where he briefed the media on the current situation, outlined key challenges, and shared the government’s roadmap for future action.
“This is an extremely unfortunate development. The emergence of a polio case from Diamer is a stark reminder of the need for sustained and intensified efforts,” said Syed Mustafa Kamal. “Today, we held high-level meetings to conduct comprehensive consultations regarding the polio eradication strategy.”
The Minister expressed concern over the continued presence of poliovirus in several districts across the country. He emphasized that Pakistan uses the same safe and effective vaccine that helped eradicate polio in the United States, Europe, China, and numerous Muslim countries. “There is no reason for doubt or fear. This vaccine has already protected millions of children globally and is saving lives in Pakistan as well.”
Highlighting global progress, the Minister noted that even in Afghanistan, large-scale polio campaigns are underway, with the Taliban-led administration actively ensuring vaccination through house-to-house visits.
“It is time to reject harmful misconceptions. Every parent must ensure their child receives polio drops every time,” urged the Minister. “Please, do not endanger your child’s future. These children are your strength, and their health must be our top priority.”
Syed Mustafa Kamal also called on communities to unite in the fight against polio: “From every street and neighborhood to every village and town, each citizen must play their part. When communities become more aware, the spread of the virus will shrink.”
The Federal Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a polio-free Pakistan and called for collective responsibility to protect every child from this preventable disease.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
