polioliului

Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a viral infectious disease that primarily affects the nervous system. It is caused by the poliovirus, which can infect the spinal cord, brainstem, and sometimes the intestines. The disease is typically spread through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water, or through person-to-person contact.

Polio can lead to paralysis if the virus infects the spinal cord, causing muscle weakness or paralysis. The severity of the disease varies, with some cases being mild and others resulting in permanent disability. The disease is most commonly seen in children, but it can affect people of all ages.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent polio. The World Health Organization (WHO) has made significant progress in eradicating polio through global vaccination campaigns. As of 2021, only two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, are still experiencing endemic polio transmission. The global effort to eradicate polio continues, with ongoing vaccination programs aimed at eliminating the disease entirely.

Symptoms of polio typically include fever, fatigue, headache, and a sore throat. In severe cases, muscle weakness or paralysis may develop, often starting in the legs and progressing upward. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through laboratory testing, such as detecting the poliovirus in stool samples or identifying specific antibodies in the blood.

Treatment for polio is supportive and focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. In severe cases, physical therapy and rehabilitation may be necessary to help patients regain mobility. There is no specific antiviral medication for polio, making vaccination the primary means of prevention.