RESOLUTION No. 36326

Declare the month of July measles and malaria awareness month in Portland to raise awareness about the deadly effect of measles and malaria in African nations, specifically in Mozambique (Resolution)

WHEREAS, measles kills nearly 480,000 children half of those in Africa alone and 800,000 children in Africa die each year from malaria; and

WHEREAS, malaria is the number one cause of death in Mozambique and the number two cause of deaths in African nations [having just been overtaken by HIV]; and

WHEREAS, measles and malaria kills tourism and foreign investments in Africa and malaria alone shrinks the economy in African nations where it is most endemic by 20 percent over 15 years; and

WHEREAS, measles and malaria are preventable diseases. Measles can easily be prevented with a simple vaccination that costs less than one US dollar. For seven dollars a child can receive vaccinations for measles and polio; and

WHEREAS, preventative measures for measles and malaria are cost-effective and easily supplied; and

WHEREAS, Portland has routinely demonstrated and displayed its concern and compassion to issues of global concern, notably in its outpouring of millions of dollars in donations and volunteer efforts after the recent tsunami disasters; and

WHEREAS, Portland has an opportunity to help mitigate the impact of this human tragedy on poor Africans; and contribute to Red Cross inoculation efforts in Mozambique;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council declare the month of July as Measles and Malaria Awareness Month and urge residents to take a moment to consider the plight of hundreds of thousands of children in Africa; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council shall recognize individuals who are working to provide access to vaccination and care.

BACKING SHEET INFORMATION

AGENDA NO. 722-2005

ORDINANCE/RESOLUTION/COUNCIL DOCUMENT NO. 36326