End Polio Now and Rotary: what to know

Rotary clubs and volunteers may help draw attention to vaccination, support community education, and encourage continued commitment to eradication work. These activities complement the clinical and public-health systems that deliver vaccines, investigate suspected cases, and monitor for circulation. A campaign message does not replace advice about an individual child’s schedule.

Use Rotary events as an opportunity to check your child’s immunisation record with a qualified healthcare professional. Follow instructions from local health services about routine doses or campaigns, and use official health channels for questions about travel, eligibility, or missed appointments. Explain vaccination in calm, age-appropriate language to children.

Get prompt medical advice for fever accompanied by sudden limb weakness, difficulty walking, swallowing, or breathing, especially after travel or possible exposure. Call emergency services for choking, breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening weakness. Public awareness work should never delay assessment of a concerning illness.

Ask whether your child’s doses are current, what to do after a missed dose, and whether upcoming travel changes the vaccination plan. Ask which service should receive a report about sudden weakness or other suspected polio symptoms.