THE CIVIC Deputy Mayor of Tameside joined members of Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary Club to commemorate this year’s World Polio Day.
The annual occasion on October 24 sees Rotary members, public health advocates and others come together to recognise the progress being made in the fight to end polio.
Councillor Betty Affleck stood with Rotarians on the steps of Dukinfield Town Hall at midday on the day.
Polio is a highly contagious disease caused by the polio virus. Although very rare, the virus can attack the parts of the brain that help you breathe, which can lead to death.
Polio has no cure but can be prevented with vaccination.
Rotary’s fight against Polio began in 1979 and, with the assistance of the World Health Organisation, has helped to immunise over 2.5 billion children against Polio.
In 1988, there were estimated to be 350,000 cases of Polio across 125 different countries. But with only seven cases of Polio so far this year, all of which being the same strain in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Polio is close to being eradicated across the globe.
Martin Daglish, President of Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary Club, said the club is “very proud” of its continued support for the End Polio Now campaign.
He added: “We are one of the largest donors amongst the Rotary Clubs in the North West District and received a certificate of appreciation for our financial support of End Polio Now: Countdown to History Campaign.
“Together we will fulfil our promise to the children of the world to eradicate Polio.”
The club is also holding a Curry Night for its members and friends at the Candolim Restaurant in Stalybridge on Thursday, November 2, with all proceeds being donated to End Polio Now.