Polio eradication will not be beaten

Rotary International joins the Government of Pakistan and its partners in the Global Polio Eradication GPE Initiative in condemning the recent attacks that have killed and wounded health workers in Pakistan.

The shooting victims are among the thousands of health workers and volunteers –including members of Pakistan’s 151 Rotary clubs– who are committed to saving children by stopping the transmission of polio in Pakistan, one of three countries where the crippling virus remains endemic. The attacks prompted the Government of Pakistan to temporarily suspend the vaccination campaign due to concerns over the safety of health workers.

Rotary is deeply concerned that such attacks deprive at-risk children of basic life-saving health care services, including polio vaccinations. Pakistani Rotarians supported by Rotary members worldwide, will continue to do their utmost to create a safe environment so that these dedicated health workers can reach the nation’s most vulnerable children with vaccinations and other vital health interventions. Polio eradication has been Rotary’s highest priority since 1985, and on the brink of making history by beating polio once and for all. New Zealand Rotarians, their affiliate groups, supporters and families have generously supported GPE financially since 1985, in which time New Zealand has contributed more than NZ $6 million. They also participate in National Immunisation Days (NID’s) in polio affected countries at their own personal cost in terms of volunteer time and travel/accommodation.

The Post Polio Support Society of New Zealand Inc. endorses the efforts of Rotary NZ in its fundraising to “End Polio Now” and relieve forever the long term suffering of people including New Zealanders, worldwide. Rotary New Zealand 9,500 members, representing 260 clubs extends deepest sympathy to the families of the victims. “Their dedication and sacrifice further inspire us to continue moving forward toward the goal of a polio free world” says Stuart Batty, Rotary’s PolioPlus National Advocacy Advisor for New Zealand.

Further information can be found on www.rnzwcs.org

ENDS

© Scoop Media