The disease is because of a virus called the poliovirus.
History of Polio
Historically, there was no vaccine to prevent polio.
Between the years of 1937 and 1997, over 400,000 Americans are said to have contracted polio.
Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee
Thankfully, the 1950s also brought about the approval of the polio vaccination for use in the public.
In 1955 the vaccine, developed by a man named Jonas Salk, was launched.
This was perhaps one of the most important breakthroughs in medical history.
When the announcement was made publicly, people ran out into the streets, many crying with joy.
About one out of four people with poliovirus infection will have flu-like symptoms.
Post-Polio Syndrome
Not all of those who completely recover from Polio remain symptom-free.
This is referred to as post-polio syndrome.
The poliovirus only occurs in humans.
Once contracted, the contagious virus resides in the infected persons intestines and throat.
A few days after exposure, it can then spread through person-to-person contact, right before symptoms appear.
This commonly triggers when there is contamination of drinking water or food, called fecal-oral transmission.
Another common mode of transmission is calleddroplet spread.
This is the reason that getting fully vaccinated is so important.
Supportive treatment may include:
Prevention
There are two different types of vaccinations that can prevent polio.
Mayo Clinic adds that after a booster shot, a person will receive a lifetime immunity to the disease.
A common side effect may include pain and redness at the injection site for the IPV vaccine.
The IPV vaccine has small amounts of antibiotics, including polymyxin B, neomycin, and streptomycin.
Anyone who is allergic to these medications should not receive the IPV vaccine.
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) staff.
(2017) Global Health.
What is Polio?CDC.gov.
Christiansen, S. (2016).Alzheimer’s Disease Clinical Trials: The History of Medical Breakthroughs.Alzheimers Universe Alzu.org.
Patient Health and Information, Diseases & Conditions.
