October 24 is observed as World Polio Day. The Day was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop the vaccine against the disease in the 1950s.
We observe World Polio Day to raise awareness of the importance of polio vaccination to protect every child from this devastating disease, and to celebrate the many parents, professionals and volunteers whose contributions make polio eradication achievable.
Theme of the World Polio Day 2024
The theme for World Polio Day 2024, “A Global Mission to Reach Every Child,” focuses on the continued efforts to ensure all children are vaccinated against polio, particularly in regions where the virus remains a threat.
Polio Eradication Program in India
- India has managed to eradicate polio, a highly infectious viral disease that causes paralysis and even death, mainly affecting children.
- There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented through a vaccine.
- India reported 741 polio cases, the highest in the world In 2009, according to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
- In January 2011, India reported its last polio case, in West Bengal’s Howrah.
- India beat polio through coordination between various levels of government and international aid agencies, successful messaging, overcoming cultural barriers, and ensuring last-mile coverage. Here’s a brief account of how the story unfolded.