One of Rotary's top priorities is the eradication of the wild polio virus world-wide.
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a paralyzing and potentially deadly infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of 5. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water. It can then attack the nervous system, and in some instances, lead to paralysis. Although there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine – one which Rotary and our partners use to immunize over 2.5 billion children worldwide. Currently, only two countries remain endemic (Afghanistan & Pakistan). Since 1988, we've reduced polio cases by 99.9%.
What can you do to help eradicate polio? First, learn about it. Discover what steps Rotary has taken. The website www.endpolio.org is a fantastic resource and covers the history of the virus and Rotary's involvement in world-wide vaccinations. Second, share what you've learned. Make polio a topic of conversation in our community. Post on your social media accounts about it. Finally, support the end polio campaign. For every dollar Rotary raises to end polio, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will match it, two to one. If you make a $25 donation, it is matched with $50, making the total donation $75.
As Rotarians, this cause is near and dear to our hearts. We owe it to ourselves to be informed and engaged in eradicating polio.