Polio is also called Poliomyelitis. It is a viral infection causing Paralysis and is easily preventable by the Polio vaccine.
Polio is transmitted through contaminated water or food, or contact with an infected person.
Fewer than 5 thousand cases are recorded per year.
- Preventable by the vaccine.
- Treatment can help, but this condition can’t be cured.
- Spreads through contaminated food or water.
- Symptoms: Fatigue, fever, wasting of muscles, muscle weakness.
Vaccine:
- OPV (Oral Poliomyelitis vaccine) WHO recommended vaccine- oral suspension
- drops per dose – administered in 4 doses- At birth, 6 weeks, 10 weeks, and at 14 weeks
- IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) – Given in the US since 2000 Given by shot in the arm or leg