Home > News > Eradicating Polio, Supporting Lives: World Polio Day and Its Importance for Children
Written by Leon B. Wellington, President | Published: October 21, 2024 at 11:43 am
Imagine a world where no child has to suffer from the crippling effects of polio—a disease that once paralyzed millions worldwide. For decades, families across the globe lived in fear of the sudden onset of paralysis that could strike without warning. Thanks to global efforts, this nightmare has nearly been eradicated.
World Polio Day, celebrated annually on October 24th, stands as a reminder of the progress made and the work still required to completely eliminate polio. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of polio cases worldwide has decreased by more than 99% since 1988, from 350,000 cases to just 175 reported cases in 2019.
But why is it so important to continue this fight? And how can we ensure that children everywhere have the opportunity to grow up free from the threat of polio?
The eradication of polio is one of the most significant global health achievements in history, but the battle isn’t over yet. Polio may be eradicated in most of the world, but small pockets of the virus remain in countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan. These regions still struggle with the disease due to factors like conflict, political instability, and lack of access to vaccines.
How would the world look if we stopped the efforts now? We could see a resurgence of up to 200,000 new cases every year within a decade, according to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. So the question arises: How can we ensure that polio is eradicated for good? The answer lies in continued support, advocacy, and vaccination campaigns aimed at reaching every child, especially those in vulnerable communities.
World Polio Day was established by Rotary International over a decade ago to commemorate the efforts made to eradicate polio. Celebrated every year on October 24, this day serves as a platform for educating the public about polio, the importance of vaccines, and ongoing efforts in high-risk areas. It also aims to garner financial support to sustain vaccination programs that have been successful but still need global backing to finish the job.
But it’s not just about education. World Polio Day brings people together to take action, whether through fundraising events, social media campaigns, or direct donations to causes that work toward the complete eradication of polio.
At the heart of the fight against polio is the polio vaccine. Developed in the 1950s, the vaccine has been instrumental in nearly wiping out the disease. However, the challenge now is ensuring that the vaccine reaches every corner of the world. Vaccination campaigns must continue with the same intensity, especially in regions where the risk remains high.
The table below outlines some of the critical areas where polio remains a concern and the corresponding efforts made to combat the disease:
| Region | Number of Cases (2023) | Vaccination Rate (%) | Polio-Free Target Year | Primary Challenge |
| Afghanistan | 5 WPV1 cases | ~66% | 2026 | Security issues and inaccessibility in rural areas |
| Pakistan | 6 WPV1 cases | ~89% | 2026 | Geographical and security challenges in certain provinces |
| Nigeria | 0 (eradicated) | 95% | Polio-free | Maintaining vaccine coverage |
| India | 0 (eradicated) | 95%+ | Polio-free | Continued surveillance |
| Mozambique | 8 cVDPV2 cases | 83% | 2026 | Ongoing outbreaks of vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) |
While these numbers may seem low, complacency is the biggest threat. Without ongoing vaccination efforts, the virus could spread rapidly again, reversing decades of progress.
One of the many ways people can support polio eradication is through initiatives like Give Miami Day. This annual fundraising event is an opportunity for people to contribute to organizations focused on health and wellbeing, including those working on the frontlines of polio eradication. Donations made during this event have a far-reaching impact, directly supporting programs that provide vaccines and medical care to communities in need.
Your contribution on Give Miami Day can make a significant difference. It’s not just about donating money; it’s about investing in a future where no child has to suffer from preventable diseases. If you’re wondering how your donation helps, here’s a breakdown of where the funds typically go:
For children who contract polio, the effects are life-altering. The virus can cause irreversible paralysis, usually in the legs, leaving its victims with lifelong disabilities. In some cases, polio can even lead to death when the muscles involved in breathing are paralyzed. The emotional and financial toll on families is immense, as parents often struggle to care for a child with special needs in communities where resources are limited.
But the impact goes beyond the immediate family. Children with polio are often unable to attend school, resulting in a loss of educational opportunities. This has a ripple effect, limiting their future employment prospects and perpetuating cycles of poverty in already vulnerable communities. Polio doesn’t just cripple individuals; it cripples entire societies.
1. What is polio, and how does it spread?
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children. It spreads through contaminated water and food or contact with an infected person. The virus can attack the nervous system and cause paralysis within hours.
2. Is polio still a threat today?
Yes, although polio has been largely eradicated in most parts of the world, it remains a threat in a few countries. Without continued vaccination efforts, there is a risk that the virus could spread again.
3. What is being done to eradicate polio globally?
Organizations like WHO, UNICEF, and Rotary International, along with governments, are working together to eradicate polio through vaccination campaigns, surveillance, and public awareness. Efforts also include reaching hard-to-access communities and ensuring that every child receives the polio vaccine.
4. How can I support polio eradication efforts?
You can contribute to polio eradication by donating to reputable organizations involved in vaccination campaigns, spreading awareness, and participating in events like Give Miami Day that raise funds for healthcare initiatives.
5. What happens if we stop vaccinating for polio?
If we stop vaccinating, polio could make a comeback, potentially causing outbreaks that could paralyze hundreds of thousands of children each year. Continued vaccination is essential to keeping the world polio-free.
The fight against polio is a global responsibility that requires collective action. By supporting initiatives like World Polio Day and contributing to platforms like Give Miami Day, we can all play a part in ensuring that future generations are free from the threat of polio. Every child deserves a healthy future, and we are closer than ever to making that a reality.
Let’s work together to eradicate polio for good. Visit efccinc.org today to find out how you can help make a lasting impact in the lives of children around the world.
If this article has been helpful to you, share your thoughts with us at info@efccinc.org.
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Written by Leon B. Wellington, President
Written by Leon B. Wellington, President
Written by Leon B. Wellington, President
Written by Leon B. Wellington, President
Written by Leon B. Wellington, President
