Polio

Polio (poliomyelitis) is a viral illness that damages nerves that control muscles, resulting in muscle weakness. In severe illnesses, a person can lose the ability to move both arms and legs (paralysis) and may be unable to breathe without help.

Symptoms of polio include:

Polio is now rare in developed countries, because most children receive immunization against the virus.

Credits

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: March 24, 2011
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology

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