The world is on the verge of eradicating polio, but humanitarian crises, overstretched health systems and the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic have created new challenges. Canada has played a leading role in the global health response to polio, and we are stepping up once again.
Today, at the Rotary International conference held in Toronto, Ontario, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced $151 million in funding as the next step in Canada's support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
With this Canadian investment, GPEI and partners like UNICEF and the World Health Organization will deliver and expand quality, accessible polio immunization and health services around the world. This includes increased access to polio immunization for the most vulnerable populations, including women and girls, and in conflict-affected regions where there is little or no access to essential health services.
Efforts will focus on stopping the transmission of all forms of poliovirus by vaccinating more than 370 million children annually against polio, preventing 600,000 children annually from suffering from paralysis and death; improving vaccine uptake and communications activities to support polio vaccination; continuing disease surveillance and containment activities; and strengthening health systems.
The funding announced today will make a significant and meaningful difference in polio eradication efforts and in protecting those who are most affected. It will mean more children can live polio-free lives with good health. And it will take us one step closer to ending polio forever.
