World Polio Day, observed annually on October 24th, is being celebrated worldwide, with a focus on the substantial advancements made in the global battle against the poliovirus. This year, the theme for World Polio Day is “A Healthier Future for Mothers and Children.”
Polio, a debilitating and potentially fatal disease, has been on the verge of eradication for several years, thanks to extensive vaccination campaigns and the dedication of healthcare workers and volunteers around the world. While many regions have achieved polio-free status, challenges persist in certain parts of the world.
Persistent Polio Challenges in Pakistan
Pakistan continues to grapple with the stubborn presence of polio, with the confirmation of the fourth case this year. Despite longstanding efforts to combat the disease, environmental samples from all four provinces in the country have revealed the persistence of the poliovirus.
The battle against polio in Pakistan has been a multi-decade struggle. Before the launch of the anti-polio program in 1994, more than 20,000 children were left with lifelong disabilities each year due to the disease. Continuous polio vaccination campaigns have led to a gradual reduction in the incidence of the disease, offering hope for a polio-free future.
Polio Statistics in Pakistan
Official statistics reflect the fluctuating nature of polio cases in Pakistan over the past decade. In 2014, the country reported a staggering 306 cases, which significantly decreased to 20 in 2016 and further dropped to just one case in 2021. However, in 2023, Pakistan has already reported four cases, underscoring the ongoing challenges in the fight against this crippling disease.
A Brief History of World Polio Day
World Polio Day has deep historical ties to the global effort to eradicate polio:
- The Creation of PolioPlus: World Polio Day is closely linked to Rotary International’s initiatives. In 1979, Rotary International launched “PolioPlus,” a program aimed at eradicating polio worldwide, marking a significant step in the battle against the disease.
- Jonas Salk’s Polio Vaccine: The fight against polio gained momentum with the development of the polio vaccine by Dr. Jonas Salk in the 1950s. This vaccine was a game-changer in the battle against the disease.
- The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI): In 1988, the World Health Assembly passed a resolution to eradicate polio, leading to the establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. This initiative brought together organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Rotary International, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Inception of World Polio Day: Rotary International established World Polio Day on October 24th to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk. It was created to raise awareness about global eradication efforts and celebrate the progress made in eliminating the disease.
