POLIO is a devastating disease that kills and maims its victims. Although the number of infections have reduced dramatically, Rotarians are still fighting it, and need the public’s support in doing so.
In 1979 Rotary International launched a campaign called PolioPlus. With the aid of the World Health Organisation, The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the public of the world the number of infections worldwide was reduced to 22 in 2017.
“The last reported case in South Africa was in 1989 but until the disease is eradicated worldwide we remain high on the list of susceptible areas,” said Leo Doria, president of the Rotary Club of Uitenhage South.
“The worldwide eradication programme still costs billions of Rand annually, and we as the Rotary Club of Uitenhage South have always been active at the local forefront in raising awareness and collecting towards the eradication programme,” said Doria.
The Rotarians have redoubled their efforts by increasing the number of collecting tins available in local stores and schools, and asking the local public to help.
“We’re getting there, and all the 10c pieces quickly mount up. Last year with the community’s help we were able to send over R10 000 and everyone’s help is valuable,” said Doria.
