1. The human cost: If we choose to control polio rather than eradicate it, polio could rebound to 10 million cases in the next 40 years.
2. It’s achievable: We have the tools to end polio and the means to reach all children. The new, bivalent vaccine successfully targets the two remaining strains of polio in one dose.
3. It’s a good investment: An independent study published in the medical journal Vaccine estimates the $9 billion global investment in a polio-free world will net an economic benefit of $40 to 50 billion over the next 20 years.
4. It strengthens the system: Our polio eradication efforts have established an active disease surveillance network in all countries that is being used for other health interventions such as measles vaccinations, deworming tablets, and mosquito bed nets.
5. It sets the stage: The ability to reach all children with the polio vaccine is proof of concept that we can succeed on our next major global health initiative.
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