In a stern warning, Punjab Emergency Operations Centre Coordinator, Khizer Afzaal, has put district health administrations on notice: improve performance in polio campaigns or face the consequences. Speaking at a meeting to review district performance, Afzaal expressed frustration over persistent issues in campaign quality, despite repeated warnings.
“Lack of will, favoritism, and ignorance of merit are hindering progress,” Afzaal said, singling out Deputy District Health Officers for poor performance. “This is your last chance. I won’t tolerate any leniency.”
Afzaal stressed that unvaccinated children, training issues, and positive samples persist in districts, putting children at risk. He directed officials to develop technically sound micro plans, conduct field validations, and reshuffle long-serving polio supervisors and workers.
The meeting began with a tribute to polio workers who lost their lives in the recent heat wave, with Afzaal hailing them as martyrs. He assured CEOs of support in addressing district gaps, but emphasized that accountability is key.
The message is clear: shape up or ship out. Will district officials rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
