Peter T introduced Michelle, but as he said, she has been a member of our club since 2008, President 2016/17, started Interact at Matamata College, been on District Foundation for years and is now Chair, and a firm advocate for GECAF (give every child a future) so we know Michelle!!
Michelle started by giving us some history on Polio, there are images dating it back to 1400BC. What differs it from other viruses is that humans are the only host. Children are at most risk, and whilst it has a very high infection rate 95% of people will not show symptoms.
To eradicate this disease we need an effective vaccine, an effective vaccine delivery system (needs to be kept cold for it to survive) constant surveillance for hotspots and the political and social will to make this all happen. In 1984 WHO said they would help Rotary International in its goal to eradicate Polio but they had to raise $120m first, by 1988 they came back with US$247m, so a resolution was passed and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative was launched. The following year Rotary launched PolioPlus.
In 1988 there were 350000 cases worldwide in 125 endemic countries. In 2021 two cases in two countries. Many others notably the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have stepped up to the challenge of raising funds.
In 1988 there were 350000 cases worldwide in 125 endemic countries. In 2021 two cases in two countries. Many others notably the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have stepped up to the challenge of raising funds.
The goal of complete eradication is in sight, however, delays occur when volunteers cannot get into countries due to war or civil unrest to continue vaccinating. The global Covid pandemic has issued its own challenges too, but in this instance, the knowledge and setup have been put to use to help fight Covid.
Michelle gave a quick RGECAF update re: Covid.
Cold chain equipment is being used for COVID-19 vaccines
COVID-19 vaccination training added to RGECAF healthcare worker education
Data collected to inform RGECAF communication strategies is informing COVID-19 vaccine programme planning.
Graeme thanked Michelle for her talk, he found it immensely informative and her knowledge is amazing. We normally give a certificate and a pen to our guest speakers, Michelle happily accepted the pen but we could keep the certificate... she has got quite a few already!!