To: County of Sonoma Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): Department of Health Services
Staff Name and Phone Number: Nolan Sullivan, 707-565-4774; Patrick O’Connor, 707-565-4599; Katheryn Reihl, 707-565-3036
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming October 24, 2026 as World Polio Day in Sonoma County
End
Executive Summary:
World Polio Day is a time for public health advocates and all who want a world free from polio to come together, recognize the progress that has been made in the fight to end polio, and talk about the actions that can be taken to end polio for good. This item requests the County of Sonoma Board of Supervisors adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming October 24, 2026 as World Polio Day in Sonoma County.
Discussion:
World Polio Day is an opportunity for public health advocates and all who support a polio-free world to come together, recognize the progress made in the fight against polio, and highlight actions needed to eliminate it completely. Locally, our Public Health Division promotes immunization against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases, including year-round support and education for families and schools. As well, the County of Sonoma has worked closely with the Rotary International to raise awareness and global support for the strategies that prevent this disease.
Rotary International is a network of individuals dedicated to fostering positive change across the globe. The organization’s motto, “Service Above Self,” serves as a guiding principle for its members, inspiring humanitarian efforts and promoting goodwill and peace.
In 1985, Rotary launched PolioPlus which helped establish the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988, collaborating with key organizations such as the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. This initiative aims to immunize children worldwide against polio.
Since the inception of efforts to eradicate this devastating disease, polio cases have decreased by 99% over the last forty years. While global eradication efforts must continue in areas with political instability and limited infrastructure, our communities face emerging risks from vaccine misinformation and shifting federal policy directives that disrupt standard childhood immunization schedules. Safeguarding public health requires a steadfast commitment to proven, science-based vaccination policies and robust community partnerships to prevent the resurgence of poliovirus and other vaccine-preventable diseases. To date, Rotary has contributed over $2.8 billion and countless volunteer hours, protecting more than 3 billion children in 122 countries.
To learn more about World Polio Day visit: <https://endpolio.org/world-polio-day>
Prior Board Actions:
On October 21, 2025, the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming October 24, 2025 as World Polio Day in Sonoma County.
On October 22, 2024, the Board adopted a resolution proclaiming October 24, 2024 as World Polio Day in Sonoma County.
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
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Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
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Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Resolution
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
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