Polio is a viral infection which is caused by a virus. Polio has different names such as infantile paralysis, debility of the lower extremities, and spinal paralytic paralysis. The word polio, which is the short form of the poliomyelitis, is derived from the Greek word polio which means grey, myelos which means marrow and itis which means inflammation.

Polio is caused by the poliovirus, which affects mostly kids. It is transmitted via direct contact with the infected phlegm, mucus, feces or by having contaminated water and food containing poliovirus. This virus develops in the gastrointestinal tract and takes into its control the nervous system, and permanently damages the neurological system.

The symptoms cannot be seen in majority of the people infected with the virus. And, even if they are seen, the symptoms include malaise, fatigue, headache, fever, sore throat and vomiting. The symptoms stay only for 48 hours to 72 hours. Two to five percent of the people who are infected suffer from severe symptoms, which include paralysis and respiratory problems. At present there is no treatment available to cure polio. It can only be prevented with vaccination.

The symptoms of this virus include muscle weakness, muscle atrophy and unaccustomed fatigue. Pains occur due to joint degeneration and increased skeletal deformities like scoliosis usually attack.

The National Center for Health Statistics has estimated that above 440,000 people who are attacked by polio in the United States may suffer post-polio syndrome. The researchers estimate that 25 to 50 percent of the polio sufferers will experience the post-polio syndrome.

More Articles :

• What Is Poliomyelitis ?
• Poliomyelitis Symptoms
• Post Polio Syndrome Treatment
• Prevention Of Poliomyelitis
• History Of Poliomyelitis
• Who Discovered The Cure For Polio ?
• How Do You Get Poliomyelitis ?