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**What is Poliovirus Infection?**
**Definition:**
Poliovirus infection, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the central nervous system (CNS). It is caused by the poliovirus.
**Transmission:**
Poliovirus is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or ingestion of contaminated food or water. The virus enters the body through the mouth and multiplies in the throat and intestines.
**Symptoms:**
Most poliovirus infections (about 95%) are asymptomatic. In a small percentage of cases, symptoms may develop, ranging from mild to severe:
* **Non-paralytic polio:** Fever, headache, vomiting, muscle weakness, and neck stiffness.
* **Paralytic polio:** Muscle weakness or paralysis, which can be permanent. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure or death.
**Complications:**
Paralytic polio can have devastating complications, including:
* Post-polio syndrome: A progressive weakness experienced by some polio survivors years after the initial infection.
* Respiratory insufficiency
* Paralysis of the limbs and trunk
* Bowel and bladder dysfunction
**Prevention:**
The most effective way to prevent poliovirus infection is through vaccination. The polio vaccine has been highly successful in reducing the incidence of polio worldwide.
Other preventive measures include:
* Washing hands frequently
* Avoiding contact with infected individuals
* Practicing good sanitation and hygiene
* Boiling or treating drinking water in endemic areas
**Diagnosis:**
Poliovirus infection is diagnosed through:
* Physical examination
* Laboratory tests (throat or stool culture)
* Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to examine cerebrospinal fluid
**Treatment:**
There is no specific cure for poliovirus infection. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting recovery. This may include:
* Rest
* Pain relievers
* Physical and occupational therapy
* Respiratory support
* Rehabilitation
**Epidemiology:**
Poliovirus infection is now rare in many parts of the world due to vaccination efforts. However, it remains endemic in some countries in Africa and Asia.
**Keywords:**
* Poliovirus infection
* Poliomyelitis
* Poliovirus
* Paralysis
* Vaccine
* Prevention
* Symptoms
* Treatment
* Epidemiology
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