With only a couple of weeks to go, NOW is the time to finalize your club’s plans for World Immunization Week. The global elimination of polio is our top international priority and this upcoming public health event presents a great opportunity to spread the word on your club’s involvement.
Rotary International and our partners will commemorate World Immunization Week to raise awareness of the scientific and public health importance of vaccination and highlight the success of our polio eradication efforts. As part of our commitment to fighting disease and improving maternal and child health, this is a great time for your Rotary and Rotaract clubs to engage in these kinds of activities:
- Invite a local health care worker to share information about the importance of vaccinations at your club’s meeting
- Host a fund raising event for PolioPlus in your community, and educate people about our work to end polio
- Partner with local Interact clubs or schools to raise awareness about polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases
With only two remaining countries with endemic polio, and vaccination rates dropping, it is important for Rotarians to tell the story of our success so far. With our communities’ memories of polio wards fading with the passing of each generation, most younger people have no memory of the fear and pain polio caused and can cause again if we don’t end it globally. As Rotarians, we can be the greatest advocates and supporters of polio vaccination, and we all need to be engaged in sharing Rotary’s story with our communities.
Related resources: