Dera Division reports zero polio cases in first quarter

Dera Ismail Khan, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Apr, 2026) A comprehensive review meeting on polio eradication and routine immunization efforts in Dera Division was held on Sunday under the chairmanship of Commissioner Dera Division, Daud Khan, officials said.

The meeting was attended by Assistant to Commissioner (Planning and Development) Sajjad Baloch, World Health Organization (WHO) Team Leader Dr. Khalid Abdul Rahim, and other relevant stakeholders.

Addressing the participants, the commissioner described polio as a life-threatening disease and urged parents to ensure that all children under five years of age should receive polio drops. He emphasized that protecting children from the virus was a national responsibility and said the divisional administration had implemented comprehensive measures through effective coordination to strengthen immunization coverage.

Dr. Khalid Abdul Rahim expressed satisfaction over Dera Division remaining polio-free during the first quarter of this year.

He attributed the achievement to strong coordination between technical teams and the local administration, as well as the adoption of an effective and well-coordinated strategy.

He further noted that vaccination targets were achieved with precision and efficiency due to close collaboration among various departments, describing it as a commendable milestone.

The World Health Organization representative also appreciated the role of deputy commissioners and security forces for ensuring a safe and organized environment, which enabled field teams and frontline workers to carry out their duties effectively across all areas. He stressed that sustained coordination and joint efforts were essential for the complete eradication of the poliovirus.

At the conclusion of the meeting, all participants reaffirmed their commitment to continuing coordinated efforts with dedication and teamwork to maintain the polio-free status of Dera Division and to protect the public from the disease in the future.