Poliomyelitis
Poliomyelitis, more frequently known as “polio,” is a highly contagious virus that mostly affects children. Polio is usually passed from food or water that is contaminated with the virus.
Symptoms of Poliomyelitis
Symptoms of poliomyelitis include:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Stiff neck
- Painful limbs
Some people have no symptoms of poliomyelitis, but pass the disease on through their stool.
Effects of Poliomyelitis
Poliomyelitis attacks the central nervous system, so a percentage of people who are infected with polio will experience paralysis. This paralysis is permanent.
Preventing Poliomyelitis
The spread of polio can be controlled by a vaccine, which has effectively eradicated the disease in the United States.