Media Release

Mangaluru, Oct 25: "In 1985 Rotary International organization collaborated with WHO to fight against the crippling disease Polio by launching its 'Polio Plus' campaign by immunizing every child in the world through mass vaccination. More than 2.5 million children across 122 countries were vaccinated. The Rotary applied pressure every year. In 2017 only 16 cases in Pakistan and 4 in Afghanistan were reported and in the rest of the countries it is completely eradicated," said district Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr Ramakrishna Rao.

He addressed the Rotarians on 'World Polio Day' its significance organized by Rotary Club of Mangaluru city jointly with Rotary Club of Mangaluru Down Town at Hotel Ocean Pearl Hall on 10 24.

"Polio is a vulnerable disease attacking children and Polio vaccine is a boon to children. Rotary International initiative 'End Polio' is a meaningful movement and commitment for Polio free world and the Rotarians selfless service in this direction is commendable," he added. "In India there is no evidence of Polio cases since 2011. Hence it is completely eradicated. However, Polio vaccination will be continued every year to ensure that it will not relapse or recur." He further appealed to all the Rotarians to offer their services for eradication of Malaria from the country.

On this occasion Dr Rao was felicitated in appreciation and recognition of his innumerable services rendered to the health and family welfare sector.

Rotary Asst Governor Rtn Divakar Amin highlighted the Rotary initiative to tackle and eradicate global Polio through mass vaccination of children and also presented the report comprising of facts and figures on Polio and Rotary commitment to end Polio and promise of Polio free world.

President of Rotary Club of Mangaluru City, Rtn Dr Ranjan Rao presided over the function. Secretary Rtn Prashanth Rai, Rotary Club of Mangaluru Down Town president Rtn Ganesh Prabhu were present. Zonal secretary Rtn Suraj Hebbar proposed a vote of thanks.