Polio once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children every year, striking fear into families across the world. Thanks to global vaccination efforts, cases have fallen by 99.9% since 1988. But polio is not gone yet.

In this episode of Science in 5, we speak with Dr. Jamal Ahmad about why polio eradication still matters, how close the world truly is to ending this disease forever, and what's at stake if we don't finish the job.

Polio spreads easily, respects no borders, and remains a threat as long as it exists anywhere. With only a few cases left in two countries, the tools, knowledge, and partnerships are stronger than ever—but sustained political commitment and global cooperation are essential.

Ending polio would mean no child is ever paralyzed by this disease again—and billions saved for health systems worldwide.

• Make sure you and your family are vaccinated
• Call on governments to keep supporting eradication
• Get involved through partners like Rotary

Because eradication is all or nothing—and we are closer than ever.

A worm that can cause epilepsy? Meet Taenia solium — the pig tapeworm that travels from gut to brain, causing seizures and preventable epilepsy in millions. In this episode of Science in 5, Dr Bernadette Abela explains how this parasite spreads when pigs eat human feces and humans consume contaminated food or water — and what we can do to stop it. Learn how cooking meat properly, improving hygiene, and vaccinating pigs can break the cycle.

Did you know that RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalizations worldwide? Each year it claims over 100 000 young lives. In this Science in 5 episode, WHO's Dr Daniel Feikin shares how new immunization options can protect your baby.

Did you know cholera still kills thousands every year — and outbreaks are rising, even in countries that hadn't seen it in decades? Dr. Kate Alberti is here to tell us how this deadly disease can be preventable and treatable. Learn what you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

Did you know that drowning is a leading causes of death among children aged 1-4 years globally and that someone loses their life to drowning every two minutes? Please watch Science in 5 with our expert Dr Caroline Lukaszyk as we discuss this most under-recognized public health threat.

Did you know that the air you breathe can harm your brain, and increase your risk for dementia, anxiety and depression ? Nine out of 10 people around the world breathe air that does not meet WHO's recommended air quality standards. Air pollution kills 7 million people every year. What are cities like London, Bogotá and Beijing doing to clean their air? Dr Maria Neira explains in Science in 5.

Did you know that you can save three lives in just ten minutes with the gift of your blood? What do countries need to do to have safe blood donation systems ? WHO's Dr Yuyun Maryuningsih explains all you need to know to donate blood in Science in 5.

The tobacco industry continues to sell death and destruction by using flavors, packaging and advertising. Is there any "safe" product or consumption method? How does tobacco use harm your body? Join us today in conversation with Simone St. Claire on Science in 5.