First of all, polio eradication is integrated into the worldwide vaccination programme, strengthening and being strengthened by the effort to build immunization systems. Second, it pioneers a path for bringing other major diseases under control, from measles to pneumonia. In the years ahead, there will be an increasing need to shift from 'input' approaches to 'outcome' approaches - from service coverage to ever more competent epidemiology. This requires different skills and strategies - which can be 'learned by doing' in the final stages of polio eradication. More intangibly, eradication would boost morale.
Success breeds success.
And another famous victory would help to motivate the millions who wage the daily struggle for health throughout the world. Economics Finally, eradication makes obvious economic sense. If the world remains in the limbo of the 'nearly but not quite' stage of polio eradication, then vaccination will have to be maintained in all countries. If eradication is achieved, all countries can cease vaccination. The cost for the world as a whole is many times greater.