Governor Kelly today joined leaders from Rotary District 5710 at the Kansas State Capitol to sign an official proclamation recognizing World Polio Day, commemorating the remarkable progress made toward global polio eradication and honoring Rotary International's pivotal role in this historic public health achievement.
The proclamation, signed during a ceremony at the Governor's office, acknowledges World Polio Day, observed annually on October 24 to mark the birthday of Dr. Jonas Salk, who developed the first successful polio vaccine.
"This recognition by Governor Kelly underscores the importance of our ongoing PolioPlus efforts," said Chuck Udell, District Governor of Rotary District 5710. "Rotary clubs across Kansas continue to prove that local action creates global impact."
Rotary International launched its PolioPlus program in 1985 and has since contributed more than $2.6 billion toward polio eradication efforts. Through partnerships with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has helped reduce polio cases by 99.9% worldwide since 1988.
Rotary District 5710 encompasses Rotary clubs throughout Kansas, with members who have consistently supported international polio eradication efforts through fundraising, awareness campaigns, and volunteer service.
Today, polio remains endemic in only two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan. Wild poliovirus cases have decreased from an estimated 350,000 cases in 1988 to just a handful of cases reported annually in recent years.
The World Health Organization has set a goal to interrupt all wild poliovirus transmission by the end of 2026. Continued support from organizations like Rotary International and government partnerships remain crucial to achieving this historic milestone.
About Rotary District 5710 Rotary District 5710 serves Rotary clubs throughout NE Kansas, connecting communities through service projects, international partnerships, and humanitarian initiatives.
About World Polio Day World Polio Day was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis. The day is used to raise awareness about the importance of polio vaccination and the ongoing effort to eradicate the disease globally.
CONTACT: Maria Wilson, Rotary District 5710 PolioPlus Chair, maria4polioplus@gmail.com
