Polio (Poliomyelitis)

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It spreads mainly through contaminated food or water. In most cases, people experience mild symptoms or none at all, but in some, it can invade the nervous system and cause paralysis, often permanently. Polio primarily affects children but can impact individuals of all ages. Thanks to effective vaccines, global efforts have nearly eradicated polio, but ongoing vaccination is crucial to prevent its return in unprotected populations. The disease's ability to cause paralysis highlights the importance of immunization for individual and public health.