World Polio Day: Bad Ischl fights to eradicate polio

World Polio Day: Bad Ischl fights to eradicate polio

DISTRICT.October 24th is World Polio Day, an important occasion to raise awareness of the ongoing threat of polio. Even though Austria is now considered polio-free, the disease is still widespread in many poverty-stricken regions of the world. The Rotary Club of Bad Ischl and other service clubs are committed to eradicating this dangerous disease worldwide.

Polio, also known as infantile paralysis, affected many people in Austria in the middle of the 20th century. Until vaccination was introduced in the late 1950s, thousands of children became ill, many of whom were scarred for their lives. In the years 1946 to 1961 in particular, around 13,000 cases were registered, of which 1,500 resulted in death. The disease can be transmitted through direct contact or respiratory droplets and is often manifested by fever, headache and, in severe cases, debilitating symptoms.

The path to vaccination

A crucial turning point in the fight against polio was the development of a vaccine by Jonas Salk in the 1950s. This groundbreaking achievement enabled the nationwide vaccination campaign to begin in Austria in 1958, and millions of people were vaccinated in the following years. The subsequent introduction of Albert Sabin's oral vaccine further increased vaccination rates and significantly reduced case numbers.

Thanks to these comprehensive vaccination campaigns, Austria has been considered polio-free since 1980. This was also officially declared for the European region in 2002. Still, attention to the virus remains crucial to preventing a return. The polio vaccination is still part of the six-fold vaccination, which is offered free of charge in Austria.

The ongoing challenge

However, the dangers of polio are far from averted. The disease continues to be present in countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria, which is why global vaccination campaigns are essential. Dr. Tilman Königswieser, medical director of the Salzkammergut Clinic, emphasizes the need for vaccinations: "Poliomyelitis, also known as polio, is a highly infectious disease that can cause severe, permanent paralysis. Vaccination is the only effective protection."

The Rotary Club of Bad Ischl is committed to providing information about vaccination efforts on the occasion of World Polio Day. On October 25th, the club will be active in front of the Sparkasse as part of the Ischl weekly market. Information stands will be set up where visitors can learn more about global efforts to combat polio. Apples will also be distributed and musical entertainment will be offered. Donations are also welcome - every euro goes directly to organizations working to eradicate polio.

The return of poliomyelitis has so far been prevented thanks to sustained global efforts. However, given the risk of diseases being imported from risk countries, it remains essential to educate the population about the importance of vaccination in order not to jeopardize progress in combating this disease.

There is still a lot of work to be done, so everyone is encouraged to get involved in this important initiative and help raise awareness of this issue. More information can be found in the detailed report on www.tips.at.