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Rotary
Condems Deadly Attack on Polio Security Personnel in Pakistan
Rotary members and our partners in the fight to eradicate polio
offer our heartfelt condolences and express a deep sadness in the
wake of a horrific bomb attack in Quetta, Pakistan, that took the
lives of at least 15 security personnel on 13 January.
This tragic attack outside a polio immunization center is a stark
reminder of the dangers faced by Rotary, our partners in the Global
Polio Eradication Initiative, and the brave women and men on the
front lines of our effort to protect all children from the paralyzing
effects of polio. While the bombing will be investigated, one thing
is clear: The security personnel who were killed died because their
job was to protect teams of polio immunizers. We applaud the government's
commitment to continue the vaccination campaign throughout Pakistan,
which is one of only two countries where the poliovirus is still
endemic.
Today we pause to honor the sacrifice made by the heroic police
officers killed. Yet our 30-year commitment to end polio remains
steadfast. Even as we absorb the horror of this bombing, we are
redoubling our efforts to educate families and build confidence
in the safety of polio vaccines, and to engage community and religious
leaders to support our campaign.
We are closer than ever to achieving a polio-free world. Vast improvements
have been seen in Pakistan, with more than 80 percent fewer cases
in the country than in 2014. In order to stop polio in Pakistan
in 2016, we must ensure the safety of vaccinators to reach every
child.
And today, our release of $35 million in grants for polio eradication
signals our determination to finish the job to which thousands of
courageous individuals have committed themselves, and to never forget
the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in this effort.
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