paralytic polio

Paralytic polio is a severe form of poliomyelitis, an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The virus typically enters the body through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water. While many infected individuals experience mild, flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all, in about 1 in 200 cases, the virus attacks the central nervous system, specifically motor cells in the spinal cord and brainstem.1

This attack disrupts the signals from the central nervous system to the muscles, leading to flaccid paralysis. The paralysis can affect limbs, posture, or even breathing and swallowing muscles, depending on which nerve cells are destroyed. While some nerve function may recover if cells are only partially damaged, destroyed nerve cells result in permanent paralysis. Approximately 5-10% of those with paralytic polio die, often from respiratory complications.1

Treatment focuses on supportive care, including rest and physical therapy to prevent deformities and maintain muscle function. Mechanical ventilators, like the historical iron lung, may be necessary for breathing support. Vaccination, using either the inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) or the oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV), is crucial for preventing polio.2