Polio
What Is Polio?
Children under five are typically affected by highly contagious poliomyelitis, mostly called the poliovirus. People contract the virus from one another, usually by drinking tainted water. It has the potential to assault the nervous system and cause paralysis in some instances. Even though there is no cure, Rotary and our partners have immunized over 2.5 billion children globally using a safe and effective vaccine.
Partners
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), which includes Rotary, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and governments worldwide, is in charge of the fight to eradicate polio.
- Polio eradication is the largest public health initiative of its kind in history, an incredible global health success story, and lessons learned help address other public health problems.
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
Global History
Keeping India Polio-free
On March 27, 2014, India was officially declared polio-free, along with the rest of the South-East Asia Region. Ten years later, for a country once considered the most difficult to bring to zero cases, it’s a significant achievement of historical importance. Back then, India accounted for over 60% of all global polio cases until 2009.
Rotary has played a crucial role in India’s success by reaching vaccine-hesitant and remote populations in communities throughout the country to raise awareness about vaccination campaigns and the benefits of immunization. India has not had a case single case of wild poliovirus since 2011.
- Under the aegis of Rotary International’s PolioPlus programme and the India PolioPlus Committee (INPPC), Rotary members across India have been working actively involved in Polio Eradication efforts in their respective states. Rotary volunteers in India have been the grassroots agents of change in the movement, who through their unwavering commitment, helped in overcoming cultural, geographical and socio-political challenges to reach every community with the vaccine. The INPPC recruits volunteers, mobilizes society, raises funds, and raises awareness to promote the polio vaccine in India. The Government of India had adopted the National Immunization Days (NIDs) in 1995, and the initiative continues even today. As a part of the annual NIDs and bi-annual Sub-NIDs, Rotary volunteers continue to contribute to immunization efforts in their respective communities nationwide.
Impact of
PolioPlus Program
More than
Paralytic Cases
are now prevented every year
To date,
polio-endemic countries declined from over
to just two in 2022 (Pakistan and Afghanistan).
To date,
countries around the world have benefited from
PolioPlus grants
In 1988,
of children lived in
polio-free countries.
To date,
of children live in
polio-free countries.
In 2022, more than
children were vaccinated in over 35 countries using more than
1.2 billion doses of oral polio vaccine.
If polio is not eradicated within the next 10 years, as many as
children
could be paralyzed by it each year.
Key Highlights (2024)
Two rounds of Sub national NIDs conducted across the country
The 30th India expert advisory group meeting on polio eradication was held in New Delhi under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative launched a new strategic plan for the period 2022 – 2026, entitled “Delivering on a Promise.”
Rotary’s polio infrastructure supported preparedness and response activities in Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
News and Stories
Celebrating World Immunization Week: Rotary’s Unwavering Commitment to Global Health
In celebration of World Immunization Week from April 24-30, Rotary International highlights its steadfast dedication to global health through vaccination. Rotary has played a crucial role in immunization, particularly in the fight against polio since 1985, saving countless lives and fostering healthier communities. The recent pandemic underscores the ongoing need for widespread vaccination. Rotarys relentless efforts exemplify service and humanitarianism, fortifying public health against diseases. As we mark this week, let’s reaffirm our commitment to immunization and support organizations like Rotary in building a disease-free future.
Rotary’s Triumph: Making India Polio-Free
In celebration of World Immunization Week from April 24-30, Rotary International highlights its steadfast dedication to global health through vaccination. Rotary has played a crucial role in immunization, particularly in the fight against polio since 1985, saving countless lives and fostering healthier communities. The recent pandemic underscores the ongoing need for widespread vaccination. Rotarys relentless efforts exemplify service and humanitarianism, fortifying public health against diseases. As we mark this week, let’s reaffirm our commitment to immunization and support organizations like Rotary in building a disease-free future.
Polio-Free India: From Epicenter to Triumph
On March 27, 2014, India was certified wild poliovirus-free, a testament to the nation’s extraordinary commitment and effort. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of this milestone highlights the collective determination that overcame an immense health challenge.
Critical factors in this success included unwavering government commitment, an effective multi-actor system, real-time data-driven strategies, and strong community engagement. Delivering 1 billion doses annually to 172 million children, the relentless efforts of the National Polio Surveillance Project and its partners ensured every child was vaccinated, ultimately ending polio in India. This achievement boosted public confidence and showcased global solidarity in the fight against polio.
