Dr Shahzad Baig resigns as Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme’s National Coordinator

Dr. Shahzad Baig Resigns as National Coordinator of Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme

Dr. Shahzad Baig, the national coordinator of the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme, has announced his resignation, citing “personal reasons.”

Dr. Baig, who earned a spot on Time magazine’s list of 100 world leaders in health, confirmed his departure amidst significant challenges in the country’s fight against polio.

Leadership Change Amidst Rising Polio Cases

Dr. Baig’s resignation coincides with a decision by the Pakistani government to appoint a bureaucrat to lead the polio programme. This move comes after heavy criticism regarding the resurgence of polio in Pakistan, where the virus has been detected in at least 153 environmental samples across 39 districts. To date, three children in the country have been affected by the poliovirus.

Government officials disclosed that a bureaucrat would head the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) for polio, addressing the virus’s rapid spread over the past two years. An official from the National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (NHSR&C) stated, “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to replace Dr. Shahzad Baig with a government official of BPS 21 or above to lead the operational side of the polio eradication initiative.”

Continuing Efforts and Future Direction

Despite his resignation, Dr. Baig may continue to serve as a technical advisor for the polio programme. However, the administrative responsibilities will now be managed by a government-appointed official. The wild poliovirus has been spreading rapidly, with 126 environmental samples testing positive in 28 districts in 2023 alone.

The government is expected to appoint a new national coordinator soon, with partner organizations aiding in the transition to a government-led operational model. This change aims to bolster the polio eradication efforts and address the recent resurgence of the virus.

Final Word

Dr. Shahzad Baig’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s ongoing battle against polio. The appointment of a new coordinator is anticipated to bring fresh leadership and renewed vigor to the programme. The government and partner organizations remain committed to eradicating polio from Pakistan, despite the current challenges.

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