Polio, short for poliomyelitis, is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. In most cases, the disease is asymptomatic or causes only mild flu-like symptoms.

However, for a small percentage of people infected, the virus attacks the motor neurons in the brain stem and spinal cord, leading to paralysis and possibly death.

Causes

The primary cause of polio is the poliovirus. The virus spreads from person to person, mainly through contaminated feces or droplets from the throat or nose of an infected person.

Symptoms

Most people who are infected with the poliovirus do not show any symptoms and fully recover without any complications. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:.

Fever
Sore throat
Headache
Vomiting
Fatigue

In a small percentage of cases, the virus can cause more severe symptoms, including:.

Muscle weakness
Loss of reflexes
Muscle wasting
Paralysis (partial or complete)

Prevention

The best way to prevent polio is through vaccination. The polio vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended that all children receive the vaccine as part of their routine immunization schedule.

Treatment

There is no cure for polio, but treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment may include:.

Bed rest
Pain relief medication
Assistive devices to help with mobility
Physical therapy

Complications

For those who develop more severe symptoms, complications can include:.

Paralysis of the arms, legs, or diaphragm muscles
Difficulty breathing
Difficulty swallowing

Outlook

The vast majority of people who are infected with the poliovirus fully recover without any complications. However, for those who do develop more severe symptoms, the outlook can vary depending on the extent and location of paralysis.

Global Eradication Efforts

Since the introduction of the polio vaccine in the 1950s, the number of cases of polio has decreased dramatically.

Global efforts to eliminate the disease have been ongoing, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has set a goal to eradicate polio completely. While there is still work to be done, significant progress has been made, with only a few countries still reporting cases of polio annually.

Conclusion

Polio is a disease that can cause paralysis and even death, but it is preventable through vaccination. It is important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others from the virus.

If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your risk for polio, speak to your healthcare provider.