Theme 2025: “One Day. One Focus: Ending Polio”
I. Overview:
World Polio Day is observed annually on October 24 to raise awareness about polio, a debilitating disease that once affected millions worldwide. Established by Rotary International in 1985, the day commemorates the birth of Jonas Salk, who developed the first successful polio vaccine in 1955. The observance serves as a reminder of the global efforts required to eradicate polio and the importance of continued immunization campaigns.
II. Significance of the Theme:
Present theme emphasizes a concerted, singular effort across the world on a specific day (October 24) to highlight and intensify actions toward eradicating polio
III. What is Polio?
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water or food, and can invade the nervous system, leading to paralysis or even death. While there is NO cure, polio can be prevented through safe and effective vaccination.
IV. Quick Facts about Polio 💡
- Since 1988, polio cases have decreased by over 99%, from an estimated 350,000 cases to fewer than 200 in 2024.
- As of 2025, wild poliovirus remains endemic in only two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) cases have been reported in several countries, emphasizing the need for high immunization coverage.
V. A Brief History of World Polio Day
1955: Jonas Salk develops the first effective inactivated polio vaccine (IPV).
1960: Albert Sabin introduces the oral polio vaccine (OPV), facilitating mass immunization campaigns.
1985: PolioPlus, the pioneering and largest international private-sector initiative in public health, started with an initial goal to raise US$120 million.
1988: The World Health Assembly launches the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
1994: International Commission announces that polio has been eliminated from the Americas.
2000: The Western Pacific Region is declared polio-free.
2006: The number of polio-endemic countries limited to 4 – Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, Pakistan
2014: India is certified polio-free along with SEARO region by the WHO.
2020: WHO certifies the African region wild polio-free.
VI. How to Observe World Polio Day
- Educational Campaigns: Organize seminars and workshops to educate communities about polio prevention and the importance of vaccination.
- Vaccination Drives: Collaborate with health organizations to conduct polio immunization campaigns, especially in high-risk areas.
- Fundraising Events: Host events to raise funds for polio eradication efforts, with donations often matched by partners like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Social Media Advocacy: Use platforms to share information, personal stories, and updates using hashtags like #WorldPolioDay and #EndPolioNow.
- Community Engagement: Encourage local leaders and influencers to promote polio awareness and support vaccination initiatives
🔗 References:
- https://www.who.int/europe/campaigns/world-polio-day
- https://www.cdc.gov/global-polio-vaccination/world-polio-day/index.html
- https://www.endpolio.org/world-polio-day
