 | ONE DAY, ONE FOCUS: ENDING POLIO World Polio Day 2026 will be observed on October 24th. This day is dedicated to recognising the global efforts to eradicate polio and the importance of vaccination. It represents an opportunity to share stories of progress and to call for continued commitment to polio eradication efforts and recognises health workers, communities, donors and leaders going above and beyond to reach every child with the polio vaccine. |
The fight to end polio is led by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), which includes Rotary, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Gates Foundation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and governments of the world, with the support of many others around the globe. By working together with our partners, governments, and communities around the world, Rotary has been instrumental in immunizing over 3 billion children in 122 countries.
Polio is a highly contagious and dangerous disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. One in 200 infected people face the risk of permanent paralysis, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). This is why World Polio Day is an important occasion to continue to raise awareness for polio vaccination in the efforts to eradicate polio.
The wild poliovirus remains endemic only in 2 countries – Afghanistan and Pakistan. If eradication efforts stopped, polio could again paralyse up to 200,000 children annually with 10 years.
Polio eradication is within reach. We must step up efforts – not step back – to deliver on the promise of a polio-free world.
(Submitted by Diane Wilkinson, International/Foundation Chair).