In a troubling turn of events, gunmen targeted polio workers in two separate attacks in northwestern Pakistan, raising concerns about the safety of vaccination campaigns in the region. The most recent incident occurred in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where a policeman guarding a group of polio workers was fatally shot by assailants on a motorcycle. This attack follows a similar one in Bajur the day before, where gunmen on motorcycles killed a polio worker and a police escort.
These attacks have instilled fear among polio workers, who play a crucial role in eradicating the disease from Pakistan. Despite the risks, authorities launched a nationwide polio vaccination campaign on Monday, implementing heightened security measures to protect the workers.
Unfortunately, violence targeting polio workers is not uncommon in Pakistan. Extremist groups often view vaccination campaigns as a Western conspiracy and pose a threat to those involved. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a recent roadside bombing in South Waziristan, which injured several officers and civilians assigned to protect polio workers.
Polio remains a significant public health concern in Pakistan, with 17 new cases reported since January. The disease primarily affects children under the age of 5 and spreads through contaminated water. Pakistan, along with Afghanistan, are the only countries where polio transmission has not been halted, posing a challenge to global eradication efforts.
These attacks underscore the importance of ensuring the safety and security of healthcare workers involved in vaccination campaigns. Addressing misconceptions about polio eradication and promoting community engagement are essential steps towards achieving a polio-free future in Pakistan.
