Polio Plus

Polio Plus

As you will see in the polio related links, the campaign to “End Polio Now” continues apace, albeit that the successful end of this 30+ year endeavour is now in sight. The achievement is already considerable, but the task is not yet complete.

To that end, the 2017 Rotary International Conference was the scene for a series of major pledges, with nations and key donors, not least Rotary International and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, pledging $1.3 billion to complete the eradication of this crippling disease.

The new funding will go toward polio eradication efforts such as disease surveillance, responses to any outbreaks, and the vaccination of more than 400 million children annually. 

“The global eradication of polio has been Rotary’s top priority since 1985. Rotary members have been the driving force behind the fight to end polio since its inception”

John Germ, President of Rotary International 

Rotary has raised more than $1.7 billion to fight the disease since 1985, and has now committed to increase its commitment and raise $50 million per year over the next three years. The Gates Foundation will extend its 2-to-1 match, so this will generate total funding of $450 million.

The new funding will go toward polio eradication efforts such as disease surveillance, responses to any outbreaks, and the vaccination of more than 400 million children annually. 

While the end may be in sight, we still have a job to do, so it is important that all Rotary Clubs recognise the need for continued contribution, either through fundraising events or through personal and club donation.

The awareness campaign is also continuing, so:

·      Get involved with the planting of crocus corms

·      Celebrate the blooming of the purple crocuses with awareness raising events

·      Use the Purple for Polio jam to raise awareness and raise funds – there is more jam available, if you need it

·      Sell silk crocus badges – available now!

For more information, contact Polio Champion, Collette O’Neill of RC Cork Bishopstown colletteoneill24@gmail.com