Summary and relevance: The U.S. Government and Global Polio Efforts
Since ancient times, polio has been plaguing the world due to its relatively high rates of infectiousness, morbidity, and mortality. Interestingly, global efforts toward eliminating the disease have paid off in the recent past. For example, “in 2012, there were only 223 cases of the disease, while in 2013, 416 cases were reported” (Global Health Policy, 2014, para. 1). It is worth noting that polio is expected to be eradicated by 2018. In fact, the infection has been wiped out in about 120 nations across the world, while it is endemic in only three nations. Oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) has helped global efforts to eradicate the disease in a significant number of countries (Global Health Policy, 2014). The vaccine is relatively cheap and is easily administered by healthcare givers. If the “efforts will be successful by 2018, then it will be the second time in history to eradicate a disease affecting human beings” (Global Health Policy, 2014, para. 4).
Relevance to the Global Health Policy
The US government has been at the forefront in fighting polio over the years. Global Health Policy would achieve much if the disease would be eradicated in all nations by 2018. Private-public partnerships would be critical in achieving the goals established for fighting polio. Some of the organizations that play key roles in the eradication efforts are the CDC, the WHO, Rotary International, and UNICEF.
Article summary: Innovative Toilet Technology for the 21st Century
The “Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation promised to give a grant of about $400,000 to the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Pollution Research Group (PRG)” (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, 2014, para. 1). The funds are aimed at supporting an innovative program that would result in relatively high levels of technology related to toilets and sanitation. Professor Chris Buckley “would lead a group of local and international experts to design and implement an innovative toilet system, which would culminate in safe waste disposal” (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, 2014, para. 5).
Researchers in the project argue that users would not be required to pay utility bills, such as electricity bills. Another advantage of the product is that it would be economically accessible. In order for the project to succeed, the PRG will focus on obtaining crucial assistance from many partners in South Africa. For example, “eThekwini Water and Sanitation Company would be expected to offer logistical support in relation to community ablution blocks” (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, 2014, para. 1). In addition, Hering South Africa would help to design the toilet system due to its high level of expertise in the field. Some students in the university will gain crucial skills through participating in the project.
References
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. (2014). Innovative Toilet Technology for the 21st Century. Web.
Global Health Policy. (2014). The U.S. Government and Global Polio Efforts. Web.