Two drops, every child, every time…

Over 30 years ago, Rotary made a promise to the world to eradicate polio.

When we get there, it will be only the second time that a disease affecting humans has been eradicated. Now we're on the brink of history, thanks to the support of partners like you and the generous support of the Gates Foundation. 

Let's drop to zero.
Two drops, every child, every time...

The Facts

1

Polio mainly affects children under age 5.

2

There is no cure, but polio is preventible with a vaccine.

3

Only two countries remain endemic.

4

We've reduced cases by 99.9% since 1988.

5

Until we end polio forever, every child is at risk

Unless we eradicate polio, within 10 years, as many as 200,000 new cases could occur around the world each year. In the past few years, only two countries have reported cases of polio caused by the wild virus, but no child anywhere is safe until we’ve vaccinated every child.

Faces of the fight

Minda Dentler Ironman athlete, polio survivor, and mother reflects on India's success in going more than 6 years without a new polio case.

“I am one of India’s polio survivors. 2020 marks nine years since the last case of polio in India, a disease which once struck 150,000 children in the country in 1985, the year when Rotary launched its PolioPlus program.

With its size, population density, unsanitary, impoverished areas, and the very high incidence of endemic diseases, many thought that India would never rid itself of the scourge of polio. But thanks to the efforts of thousands of health workers and volunteers as part of Rotary’s efforts in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, it hasn’t seen a case since January 2011.

To put that in perspective, India used to have, in one hour, as many cases as the U.S. or Canada would have in a year. 

As I reflect on this milestone from my home in New York, I know that this is an amazing achievement.

Once children are protected from the threats of diseases like polio, they should be free to gain an education, and empowered to escape poverty. Eradicating polio is the first clear step on that long path, and on this day, I urge you all to help Rotary ensure that no child will ever suffer from this burden ever again.”

About Rotary International

Rotary brings together a global network of volunteers dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members of more than 35,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work improves lives at both the local and international levels, from helping families in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world.

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Find out more