Saifullah Khamush: I am proud to fight on the front line against polio
Saeed Zabulai
Zabul, Afghanistan – Zabul, situated in the southwest region of the country, lies 353 kilometers away from Kabul along the Kabul-Kandahar highway, with Qalat at the heart of this province.
Many villages on the outskirts of the city consist of mud houses and lack paved roads and basic amenities.
Saifullah Khamush, aged 28, works as a vaccinator with the polio eradication program in the same area.
“I began volunteering with the polio eradication program six years ago. I am proud to fight on the frontline in the battle against polio. In addition to administering polio vaccinations to every child in my area of responsibility, I also raise public awareness about the dangers of polio and the benefits of the vaccination.”
He mentions that he has dedicated significant effort during this period, and every resident in the area recognizes him. They heed his advice, and he has successfully persuaded dozens of previously hesitant families to vaccinate their children.
He mentions that earning people’s trust naturally takes time, but he consistently stays in touch with them. He visits their doorsteps, listens to their concerns, and informs them about the benefits of vaccination.
“My crucial message to every family is that polio has no cure, and once children contract this disease, they suffer from permanent disability. The only way to prevent this disease is to ensure all children up to the age of five receive two drops of the polio vaccine.”
The efforts of Khamush and his colleagues have proven to be beneficial, as many families who were exposed to misinformation about the polio vaccine have agreed to vaccinate their children.
In this regard, a family in the region who had previously refused to vaccinate their children eventually agreed to vaccination as a result of Khamush’s efforts.
It was no easy feat; with the assistance of a religious scholar from the region, they managed to convince the head of this family.
This religious scholar, Maulvi Hikmatullah, expresses his happiness in contributing to this noble cause, stating that he is doing his part to safeguard the future of the children.
He added that sometimes negative news or videos circulating on social media can have a detrimental impact on people, but it is the responsibility of the informed and knowledgeable members of society to educate and enlighten them with the truth.
He emphasizes to the people: “In Islam, prevention is better than treatment. The polio vaccine plays a crucial role in enhancing children’s immunity against this disease. Therefore, vaccinate your children, strengthen their immunity, and safeguard them from polio.”
