World Immunization Week (24-30 April) is a perfect time for Rotary clubs to share the incredible progress Rotary and its partners have made toward eradicating polio.

Article by Murray Verso, End Polio Now Coordinator

This year there are significant anniversaries to celebrate:

• 10 years since the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region was certified free of polio
• 30 years since the WHO Americas Region was certified as polio-free
• 50 years since the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization, which ensures equitable access to vaccines (including polio vaccines)

During World Immunization Week, you can raise awareness that vaccines work and give examples of what Rotary and our partners have accomplished in reducing polio cases by 99% worldwide.

How to support EndPolio during World Immunization Week

• Visit endpolio.org
• Explore the World Immunization Week Toolkit to find graphics and sample posts that you can share on social media with the hashtags #EndPolio and #VaccinesWork
• Use a club meeting as an opportunity for members to learn about Rotary’s polio eradication efforts.
• Host an event to raise awareness and funds for PolioPlus.
• Start an online fundraiser using Raise for Rotary and share it with your network.

Don’t forget! Your district can donate District Designated Funds (DDF) to PolioPlus to help Rotary meet its US$50 million fundraising goal each year to ensure a $100 match from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

We know our work isn’t done until we end polio forever but as a Rotary member, you have a critical role in helping to achieve this very important goal.