On Sunday, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced a $1.2 billion donation to global polio eradication efforts.
Polio used to paralyze tens of thousands of children each year in dozens of countries around the world, but the virus is now only found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Gates Foundation’s nearly $5 billion contribution to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative has contributed to the virus’s eradication.
“Polio eradication is a real possibility. Despite our progress, the disease remains a threat. The world can end this disease if we all work together. “In a statement, Bill Gates stated.
Despite the virus’s success in combating it, poliovirus samples were found in New York’s wastewater this year. This summer, a 20-year-old Rockland County man became paralyzed after contracting the virus.
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which aims to vaccinate 370 million children, will require $4.8 billion in funding through 2026.
“The fight against polio has accomplished far more than simply protecting children from the disease. It has been critical in strengthening health-care systems “Melinda French Gates made the announcement in a statement.
