New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) World Polio Day serves as a reminder of India's extraordinary progress in the fight against polio, attributable to robust national initiatives and significant public involvement, stated Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Friday.

Every year, World Polio Day is observed on October 24 to promote awareness regarding this highly contagious disease.

India achieved the prestigious status of being officially polio-free, as certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 27, 2014.

This accomplishment came after the country reported zero cases of wild poliovirus transmission for three consecutive years, with the last case recorded in January 2011.

“As we commemorate World Polio Day, it stands as a testament to India’s remarkable journey in eliminating polio, a success made possible through relentless national efforts and extensive public engagement,” Nadda shared on the social media platform X.

The Health Minister praised the dedication of healthcare workers in combating the disease, which can attack the nervous system and result in full paralysis within hours.

“The success in eradicating polio in India is largely due to the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals who reached every household with compassion and resolve, ensuring that no child was neglected in the battle against this preventable illness. We must renew our dedication to protecting every child through timely vaccinations and collaborate to build a healthier, polio-free future,” Nadda emphasized.

Polio, or poliomyelitis, predominantly affects children under the age of 5. Approximately one in 200 infections can lead to irreversible paralysis, and of those paralyzed, 5-10 percent may die when their respiratory muscles become paralyzed.

Data from the WHO indicates that in 1988, over 350,000 children were paralyzed by polio annually. This number has plummeted by over 99 percent thanks to vaccines, with only 36 cases of wild poliovirus reported this year.

“More than 20 million individuals are able to walk today who otherwise would have faced paralysis. An estimated 1.5 million childhood fatalities have been averted through the systematic administration of vitamin A during polio immunization campaigns,” stated the WHO.

“On this World Polio Day, let’s unite to raise awareness to shield every child from polio and foster a healthier future for all by endorsing the theme: End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere,” the Ayush ministry remarked on X.