The Conversation: How ending polio in Africa has had positive spinoffs for public health
Charles Shey Wiysonge, director of Cochrane South Africa at the South African Medical Research Council

“…The polio eradication program in Africa directly combated a severe debilitating disease. But it also provided a platform for broader health care services on the continent. Polio eradication created renewed demand for vaccination services and innovative ways to deliver health care services. … Africa’s health systems are much stronger because of the investments made. Countries were supported to make life-saving gains. These included increasing access to health care in the most remote places, strengthening routine vaccination systems, and ensuring strong disease surveillance. Polio’s legacy must be built on to achieve other major health goals” (11/3).