Eradicating Polio
Polio Eradication Initiative
Today, the world stands at the threshold of being polio-free — approximately 2,000 cases were recorded in 2007, down from 350,000 cases just 15 years ago. But a global funding shortfall for immunization activities through 2009 threatens to derail the effort. Each new case of polio is another child afflicted, and another threat to the dream of a world without polio.
As a key supporter of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which has protected 2 billion children from polio, the UN Foundation is working with national governments, NGOs, corporations and individuals alike in pursuit of polio eradication. Together, we can attain a unique legacy, and ensure that no child is ever again paralyzed by polio.
STORIES OF IMPACT
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Video: Creator of the Measles Vaccine Describes Impact
Area of Involvement: Children’s Health
Dr. Samuel Katz and his team developed the measles vaccine now used globally. He recounts his experiences battling a disease that affected millions worldwide.
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Sending anti-malaria nets to refugees in Ethiopia
Area of Involvement: Children’s Health
(Part six of Elizabeth Gore's blog series on Ethiopia) Standing in Mai-Aini refugee camp in Ethiopia, I was reminded why it is imperative that the UN Foundation fills a vital gap in malaria funding by providing anti-malaria bed nets, the most cost effective method of malaria prevention, to refugees in Africa. Mai-Aini, a camp on the Ethiopia – Eritrea border, hosts 10,000 refugees with 1,200 new people arriving per day from the turbulent country of Eritrea.
RESOURCES
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Nothing But Nets 2008 Report
Issue Area: Children’s Health
In 2008, supporters of the Nothing But Nets campaign have saved millions of lives. With the funds raised, the life-saving bed nets distributed, the number of supporters reached, and the raised profile of malaria, 2008 proved to be a successful year for Nothing But Nets and, ultimately, the global effort to prevent malaria.
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Measles Initiative Fact Sheet
Issue Area: Children’s Health
