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June 04, 2003

INTERNATIONAL IMMUNIZATION NEWS

“Renewed Effort Needed Against Polio”

Boston Globe (www.boston.com/globe) (06/03/03) P. A15; Farrow, Mia

In a commentary in the Boston Globe, actress and UNICEF special representative on polio eradication Mia Farrow explains that although polio is no longer a threat to Western children, the disease is still a threat in a few remaining countries.  The solution to eliminating polio worldwide is to ensure that every child under the age of five receives a polio vaccination through mass immunization campaigns in the remaining countries where the disease is found.  “The Polio Eradication Initiative is a massive undertaking with huge logistical challenges,” Farrow asserts.  “To be effective, the campaign must reach every child, including those isolated by geography, poverty, and conflict.”  A shortage of funds threatens the polio eradication campaign, Farrow notes, and despite many contributions, the program is faced with a $210 million funding gap.  Farrow believes the world is close to eliminating polio, but she urges continued support of the Polio Eradication Initiative to help make being polio-free a reality worldwide.