POLIO WORKERS KILLED IN PAKISTAN
In the past few days, several polio immunization workers have been killed in Pakistan. Here is a link to a recent CNN story about this tragic event:
Here is a message from Rotarian Bob Scott, Chairman of the International PolioPlus Committee:
Dear Rotary Leaders:
Over the past 48 hours, several polio vaccinators have been killed in Pakistan. You may have heard about this through media reports as news of this tragedy is quickly spreading and garnering global attention. I am sharing the official statement that has been issued as Rotary's immediate response. Please be assured that Rotary and its partners within the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) are actively monitoring and responding to these events as they develop.
I have spoken with Pakistan Polio chair Aziz Memon who has visited some of the relatives of the deceased to express his personal and Rotary's sincere condolences indicating that Rotary will continue to eradicate polio so that the loss of these victims will not be in vain.
We will work to keep you and the Rotary world advised, particularly through Rotary's social media channels which allow for the speedy dissemination of updates.
Yours sincerely
Bob Scott
Chair, International PolioPlus Committee
Below is the text of an official statement from Rotary international:
Rotary condemns attacks targeting polio vaccinators in Pakistan
Rotary International joins the Government of Pakistan and our partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in condemning the recent attacks that have killed and wounded health workers in Pakistan. The shooting victims are among the thousands of health workers and volunteers – including members of Pakistan’s 151 Rotary clubs – who are committed to saving children by stopping the transmission of polio in Pakistan, one of three countries where the crippling virus remains endemic.The attacks prompted the Government of Pakistan to temporarily suspend the vaccination campaign due to concerns over the safety of health workers.
Rotary is deeply concerned that such attacks deprive at-risk children of basic life-saving health care services, including polio vaccinations. I know that Pakistani Rotarians, supported by Rotary members worldwide, will continue to do their utmost to create a safe environment so that these dedicated health workers can reach the nation’s most vulnerable children with vaccinations and other vital health interventions.
Polio eradication has been Rotary’s highest priority since 1985, and we are on the brink of making history by beating polio once and for all.
On behalf of Rotary’s 1.2 million members, representing 34,000 clubs in 200 countries and areas, I extend our deepest sympathy to the families of the victims. Their dedication and sacrifice further inspire us to continue moving forward toward our goal of a poliofree world.
Robert S. Scott, Chair
International PolioPlus Committee
The Rotary Foundation
Rotary International