What Are The Symptoms Of Polio?

Polio (poliomyelitis) is a severe illness caused by a virus called poliovirus. The majority of polio cases are asymptomatic or occur without noticeable symptoms. There are two classifications of symptomatic polio: paralytic and non-paralytic. Poliovirus is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected individual through feces, food, and the water supply. Once poliovirus enters a host, it colonizes in the intestinal and throat tissues. Without swift medical intervention, the virus mobilizes in the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. Thankfully, a vaccine to prevent polio is available.