Polio
Also called: poliomyelitis
A virus that may cause paralysis and is easily preventable by the polio vaccine.
- Preventable by vaccine
- Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured
- Spreads through contaminated food or water
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging always required
Polio is transmitted through contaminated water and food or contact with an infected person.
Extremely rare: Fewer than 1,000 US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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Polio is a life-threatening disease caused by a virus that affects the nervous system and is usually spread from one person to another when stool (poop) or, ...
What is polio? Polio is a debilitating and life-threatening disease. A virus that can affect the brain and spinal cord, polio can cause paralysis or even death.