2023

Zero-dose children in seven subnational consequential geographies hold key to success.

Polio programme must keep clear focus in 2023 on adapting operations amid broader humanitarian emergencies

2023 is a critical year for the global effort to eradicate polio.

It is the year where all remaining poliovirus transmission globally is slated to be fully interrupted, per the GPEI Polio Eradication Strategy 2022-2026

A unique epidemiological window of opportunity is presenting itself at the start of the year, that we must capitalize on.

So, what is the programme’s focus for achieving success this year? The answer is: reaching zero-dose children in the most consequential geographies.

This year, the polio programme is focusing on reaching zero-dose children (children who are either un- or under-immunized), in identified “consequential geographies ”

But what exactly are consequential geographies, and why are they so vital to the global effort to eradicate polio? In this explanatory video, long-time polio eradicator and Director for polio eradication at WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region, Dr Hamid Jafari, explains more.

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Click here to view a short video on consequential geographies.

Polio-free India – It seemed impossible until it was done.

Dr Hamid Jafari, Director of Polio for the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region, reflects on his time eradicating polio in India and what lessons we can take from this to address the final challenges for achieving eradication in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

India’s journey from the world’s epicentre of a highly infectious viral disease to turning polio-free was like walking on eggshells: Every step we took mattered.

On 13 January 2023, India completes 12 polio-free years – a remarkable achievement that was made as a result of consistent, determined efforts and genuine commitment at all levels.

I spent close to six enriching years of my life serving as the project manager of the National Polio Surveillance Project (NPSP) for WHO India. My work entailed providing technical assistance and strategic guidance to the national programme. I was also in charge of poliovirus surveillance, monitoring mass vaccination campaigns, crafting corrective measures and strategies, and working closely with government counterparts at all levels to ensure every child was vaccinated enough times to build their immunity. We delivered around 1 billion doses of polio vaccine to 172 million children each year over the course of four years leading up to the last case. And many more in the years after.

Taking a step back to reflect on this journey, there were several factors contributing to the monumental success of ending polio in India. The first fundamental factor was government commitment that consistently translated into diligent administrative action at the operational level. Even the district administrators were fully aligned with and committed to taking corrective measures based on evidence: accepting programmatic gaps and challenges and then committing to addressing them urgently.

The second, was the effective multi-actor system that allowed us as partners to provide technical assistance needed at the implementation level. We had the evidence: real-time data, including monitoring data, at the operational level that guided timely corrective actions. This data was put to good use – to recommend changes that the government took on board. I must emphasize both individuals’ and institutional willingness to make changes based on evidence mattered.

Click here to read the rest of this excellent article.

OUR NEW POLIOPLUS SOCIETY!

District 6330 is excited to announce the rolling out of our new PolioPlus Society.

The PolioPlus Society is an organization of like-minded individuals who have committed to contribute $100 or more each and every year to PolioPlus until the world has been declared free of the Wile Polio Virus. This is our commitment to fulfil the promise Rotary made in 1985 to immunize all the children of the world.

It's easy and rewarding to become a member. Complete and submit the PolioPlus Society Pledge Form and email it to Katherine Hahn, Polio Chair at katherinehahn@rotarystratford.com

Then complete your contribution commitment in one of the ways below:

1. Credit Card. Contribute with your credit card online at: https://www.endpolio.org/donate. OR

2. Check/cheque. Make out a check for $100 or more to The Rotary Foundation, with “Polio Plus” in the Memo section and submit to your Rotary Club’s Foundation Chair. OR

3. Rotary Direct. Enroll in Rotary’s recurring giving program, Rotary Direct, which makes giving easy, fast, and secure. You can schedule a monthly, quarterly, or annual donation that empowers Rotarians to change lives in communities around the world. (https://my.rotary.org/en/rotary-direct)

ALL donations will be matched 2 to 1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Anyone can join the society, not only Rotarians.

Everyone will be honoured with aspecial pin, an End Polio Now bracelet, a Society Certificate, and a great feeling in their heart.

With your help, we will reach every last child and achieve a polio free world. Please reach out to Katherine and Sign up today!

Yours in Rotary,

Katherine Hahn

6330 District Governor-Nominee Polio Plus Chair (519) 272-4859