Poliomyelitis, often called polio, is a viral infection that primarily affects the nervous system. It is caused by the poliovirus, which can lead to paralysis and, in severe cases, death. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water or direct contact with an infected person. Most people infected with polio do not show symptoms, but some may experience flu-like signs.
Vaccination has been key in reducing polio cases worldwide. The oral polio vaccine (OPV) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) have been instrumental in preventing outbreaks. Global efforts, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, aim to eliminate polio completely, making it a rare disease.