Polio remains a persistent threat in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. While Pakistan launched an eradication campaign in 1994 that saw a dramatic reduction in cases, with only five reported this year, the disease continues to spread.
To combat this issue, Pakistan administers over 300 million doses of oral vaccine annually with the help of 350,000 vaccinators as part of the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme. However, health workers and security officials face challenges such as harassment, threats, and violence while working to vaccinate communities. Sadly, at least 102 health workers have been killed over the last three decades, including in recent campaigns.
In addition to security risks, health workers also face low pay, salary delays, and difficult working conditions. Some workers report being paid as little as 1,360 rupees (approximately $5) for an eight-hour day. Even polio survivors working on the eradication campaign receive minimal benefits, forcing them to navigate challenging terrain and weather conditions with little support.
Despite these obstacles, health workers and polio survivors continue to dedicate themselves to the eradication of polio in Pakistan. Their resilience and bravery in the face of adversity are crucial in the fight against this debilitating disease.
