Polio, a contagious disease found only in human is known to cause paralysis and death. The polio virus enters the body through a susceptible host in contaminated drinking water, or through contact with oral secretions through the nasopharyngeal route of fecally contaminated surfaces such as unwashed hands. It only paralyzes about 1% of the individuals it infects, but tends to be transmitted very easily under the right conditions.

Symptoms ::
In 90% of the cases, there is just a mild illness like sore throat, fever, cough and cold, headaches, diarrhoea, nausea, vomitting and tiredness. In more severe cases, stiffness of the neck, limbs and lower back, and extreme tiredness and fatigue are observed

Prevention ::
There are two types of polio vaccines: Oral Polio Vaccine and Inactivated Polio Vaccine. OPV is recommended for healthy children and teenagers under 18. The IPV is for those over 18, who haven't been vaccinated yet, and for people who cannot take OPV for health reasons. Maintain personal hygiene and drink boiled water. Strict bed rest is advised in suspected cases. For more information consult your doctor.