Joining Forces to Eradicate Polio: Rotary Club of Shanghai x German Centre Shanghai

We are proud to have partnered with the Rotary Club of Shanghai to support the global fight against polio, a signature project of Rotary International. This meaningful event, hosted at the German Centre Shanghai, featured a rejuvenating Qigong session led by Filippo Garini, PhD—a former Rotary member who provided relaxation for the mind and energy for the body. The participation fee was fully donated to the Polio Plus Fund, furthering this critical cause.

Peter Hergemöller, Head of Marketing & Communication at German Centre Shanghai, warmly welcomed the members of the Rotary Club of Shanghai.

A special thanks to Christian M. Göttker, President of the Rotary Club of Shanghai, for his dedication to this cause. We also extend our gratitude to the entire Rotary team for their unwavering commitment.

Since the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, polio cases have dropped by an incredible 99.9%, from 350,000 annual cases across 125 countries to fewer than 100 cases today. Rotary’s efforts have helped immunize 2.5 billion children worldwide, protecting millions from paralysis. With steadfast partners like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, we are closer than ever to eradicating polio and making it only the second human disease to be wiped out.

However, the journey isn’t over. Continuous vaccination and monitoring remain vital to prevent polio’s return, ensuring a safer world for every child.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in supporting this mission. Together, we are making a difference!