Why Polio Immunization Matters: Insights From World Polio Day 2026

New Delhi, October 23: Polio is a highly infectious viral illness that most often affects children under five years old. The virus invades the nervous system and can cause permanent paralysis. There is no cure for the disease yet, but vaccines can effectively prevent it, making immunization the most important safeguard.

Each year on October 24, the world observes World Polio Day to draw attention to the importance of polio vaccination and to encourage efforts toward a world free of the disease. The theme chosen for this year is “One Day, One Goal: Complete Eradication of Polio.”

The observance was introduced by Rotary International in honour of the birthday of American virologist Dr. Jonas Salk. Dr. Salk is credited with developing the first successful polio vaccine.

India has made notable strides in its fight against the disease. The World Health Organization declared the country polio-free in 2014. Experts, however, caution that the threat has not been fully eliminated, and awareness and vaccination campaigns therefore remain active.

India reported its last polio case in 2011. The ‘Do Boond Zindagi Ki’ campaign has been central to this success, delivering oral polio vaccine to children between birth and five years of age.

To protect children, the country uses two kinds of polio vaccines. The Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is given after birth to guard against the future possibility of polio. The Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is given to children as drops by mouth.

World Polio Day reminds families, healthcare workers, and communities that prompt vaccination, cleanliness, and public awareness are necessary steps in ensuring that every child grows up protected from polio.