After a disappointing start to the year, as of 22nd May, the world has gone over 11 weeks without a case of polio.
 
The total number of cases this year is 8.
 
It is possible that the case seen in Pakistan on 8 March (their only case this year) will be the last the world will ever see. I doubt it but it is possible. That’s how close we are to eradicating polio.
It will be several years after the last case before the world can be sure that the virus has really gone. It may be lurking in waterways, or be being carried by people who are not sick. For every case of polio, there will be several hundred infected people not showing any symptoms.
 
So, we need to continue to hunt for the virus and vaccinate children until the World Health Organization declares polio eradicated. The final push is expensive, very expensive.
The cost is estimated to be US$7 billion and we still have a shortfall of US$300 million.
 
Every club in the world is being asked to give US$1,500 this year (approx. NZ$2,200) to PolioPlus and we would encourage clubs to make this donation as soon as possible. Our District is a strong supporter of PolioPlus contributing generously from your District Designated Fund but with the support of all our clubs, we can do even more.
 
Next year’s Foundation Chairs are encouraged to start thinking about PolioPlus fundraising. Purple Pinkie Day is on 24 October and you can have a lot of fun raising awareness and funds in your community. You will find lots of help at http://purplepinkieday.blogspot.com
 
We made a promise to the children of the world to eradicate polio. Help us keep that promise. Let’s finish this!
 
If you or your club would like to hear more about polio, the vaccines or the eradication programme please email the District Polio Committee at d9930polioplus@gmail.com