What is it Polio disease?
Polio is a viral infection spread through contaminated water. It is, fortunately, rare thanks to worldwide immunisation campaigns, but it remains endemic in several countries, despite attempts at eradication. There are three types of polio virus - 1,2 and 3.
What does it do?
In up to 95% of people there are no Polio symptoms, except for lifelong immunity to the infecting strain. Around 4-8% of people will experience a mild, flu-like illness from which they will recover completely. But 1-2% will develop paralytic polio. They will become increasingly paralysed over 2 to 3 days, and while there will then be some recovery, any paralysis that remains after 12 months will stay for life.
Where is it ?
The Polio disease is endemic in India, Pakistan, Afganistan, Egypt, Niger and Nigeria. There are also sporadic cases in Indonesia, West Africa and Sub Saharan Africa
Can it be treated?
Supportive Polio treatment can be provided while the body recovers.
Can it be prevented?
Everybody will receive polio immunisation as part of their childhood course. You should also receive a booster if you travel to an area where the disease is endemic.
Danger rating: 1/10
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