Against Polio

(Mali Health Organizing Project)

One of the most terrifying diseases of the 20^th century, polio has crippled and killed thousands of people around the world. While there is no cure for polio, it can be prevented through vaccinations. Today the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and others are working to eradicate the disease. However, outbreaks continue in Southeast Asia and parts of West Africa– including Mali.

Following the identification of several cases of polio in Mali earlier this year, our Community Health Workers began raising awareness to ensure that families understand the importance of the vaccine and how to get it. Education has been deemed critical in efforts to eradicate the disease: in the past, misunderstandings about the vaccine and its purpose have in the past led to public backlash.

Community Health Workers use educational cards like these to teach illiterate families about vaccination

We have also been excited to partner with local clinics and the Ministry of Health to expand vaccination campaigns. Dr. Traore, Mali Health’s Medical Advisor, states: “For years Mali has worked to eliminate this disease that has rendered thousands of children handicapped. In Sikoro these vaccination initiatives are particularly difficult given the geography and lack of roads. Moreover, limited resources mean that campaigns like these often don’t reach the entire community. We’re working to expand that capacity to ensure that all children under 5 are vaccinated.”  To date, local clinics, Mali Health, and the Ministry of Health have led three campaigns, each of which has vaccinated 12,800 children. Through these and other partnerships we hope to see Mali declared polio-free in the near future.