DERA GHAZI KHAN: A control and command centre has been established under the supervision of the World Health Organization (WHO) to monitor the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI).

Former health adviser and MPA Muhammad Hanif Pitafi, along with Health CEO Muhammad Faizan Mekan inaugurated the centre. The ceremony was attended by relevant officials.

Mr Pitafi stressed the importance of timely vaccination to protect children from twelve deadly diseases, stating that the establishment of the monitoring and evaluation cell would ensure effective oversight of the immunisation programme.

He urged health department officials and field staff to play an active role in safeguarding the younger generation from life-threatening diseases.

He also called on parents to cooperate with health teams and ensure their children complete the vaccination course on time. The initiative aims to strengthen the immunisation programme and improve public health outcomes in the region.

RALLY: A rally was held to raise awareness about the rising number of AIDS cases among children, with participants expressing deep concern over the alarming situation.

The event saw a large turnout, including parents of affected children and local citizens.

Prominent political and social leaders, including Rashida Farhan Bhutta, Farhan Bhutta, PMA leaders, child specialist Dr Gul Muhammad Qaisrani, social activists Zulfiqar Baloch and Nasrullah Baloch, political figure Mehr Sadiq Karim and Muin Musa Khail, took part in the rally.

Dr Qaisrani, in his address, described the emergence of AIDS cases among children as extremely worrisome. He revealed that affected children had been seeking treatment at the government hospital in Taunsa, raising questions about the source of the infections. Speakers at the rally demanded an investigation into the causes and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Participants urged the government to establish an AIDS control centre in Taunsa and appealed to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take notice of the issue.

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2025