Poliomyelitis

Where it occurs

Although once widely prevalent, it has recently been largely confined to a handful of countries: Nigeria, Niger, India, Pakistan, Egypt and Afghanistan. However there remains the possibility of outbreaks elsewhere, especially as the illness has been known spread countries bordering those already affected. It mostly affects children under five but can attack adults.

Infection

It is highly infectious and caused by a virus, usually found in faeces, which is ingested from contaminated food or water and which invades the body’s nervous system.

Symptoms

90% of all people who contract the virus suffer no symptoms. Where symptoms occur, these include high temperature, loss of appetite, vomiting, tiredness, sore throat, stomach pains and muscle stiffness. In the worst cases, the infection leads to paralysis which is irreversible. While this usually affects the legs, it can affect the breathing muscles which can lead to death.

Treatment

In mild cases, treatment will include rest and painkillers. In severe cases, the patient needs immediate hospitalisation and intensive treatment.