African region declared free of wild poliovirus
The World Health Organization (WHO) on 25 August announced that transmission of the wild poliovirus has officially been stopped in all 47 countries of its African region. This is a historic and vital step toward global eradication of polio, which is Rotary’s top priority. After decades of hard won gains in the region, Rotary and its partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) — WHO, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the vaccine alliance — are proclaiming the milestone an achievement in public health. They offer it as proof that strong commitment, coordination, and perseverance can rid the world of polio.
World Polio Day
24 October
One Day, One Focus, Ending Polio.
3 Actions.
3 Minutes.
A world of difference.
Learn
Get informed and help make polio a subject of conversation in your community.
Share
Most people have heard of polio but few know that the disease still affects children around the world. You can help by spreading the word.
Donate
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Current Status
Since 1988, we've seen a worldwide reduction in polio cases of 99.9%. For more than three years, we've seen wild polio cases in only two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Afghanistan
46
Reported Cases
Pakistan
70
Reported Cases
Miles to End Polio
Join Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko, Rotary leaders, staff, and members as they bike El Tour de Tucson in Arizona, USA, to raise funds to support polio eradication efforts.