Pakistan - Better security for anti-polio workers

Yet another polio team has come under attack.

On Thursday, two anti-polio workers were shot and killed by unidentified attackers in Quetta.

Anti-polio workers across the country have been continuously attacked by militants to impede vaccination drives. Last year in November, members of a polio team were beaten up in Multan. In October, those looking after a polio team’s security were attacked in Bajaur Agency. Three levy personnel died in the attack.

Stricter security measures need to be ensured for protection of anti-polio teams across the country.

The incident that took place in Quetta must be interrogated to track down those responsible for the attack. Lip service alone will no longer do if we want the campaign against the Polio virus to succeed in all parts of the country. Claims regarding security measures were made by the authorities in the past as well but they were not followed by action.

For effective security arrangements, the authorities will need to take the public on board as well, especially in remote areas. Electronic and print media campaigns could be considered for the purpose, but most importantly, the officials need to reach out to communities through elected leaders and civil society networks. The public needs to be made aware of the harms of the disease and the necessity of vaccination. The public at large must also be informed about the international isolation that the country stands to face if it cannot eliminate the virus completely this year.

Once the public has full trust and confidence in the efficacy of the anti-polio campaign, it will be easier for the authorities to launch immunisation drives. With the public on their side, the authorities will also be able to identify miscreants and proceed against them effectively.