PolioPlus

Rotary International has been a part of eradicating polio since 1985 and we’re almost there – only 1% of polio cases remain.  Over 2.5 million children in over 122 countries have been immunized.

 

The virus remains endemic in three countries – Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan.  The remaining 1% are the most difficult to prevent due to factors including geographic isolation, poor public infrastructure, armed conflict and cultural barriers.  Until polio is eradicated, all countries remain at risk of outbreaks.

 

 

Every dollar Rotary commits to polio eradication will be matched two-to-one by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation up to $35 million a year through 2018.  These funds help to provide much-needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents.  Governments, corporations and private individuals all play a crucial role in funding.

 

 

Portsmouth Rotary participates in the Polio BridgeWalk event every year in October.  Join Rotarians from a number of local clubs to walk across the Memorial Bridge to raise awareness and fund for PolioPlus.  Check out our calendar to find the next BridgeWalk.  We’d love to have you join us!