Every year, on 24 October, we mark World Polio Day to recognize the global efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis (polio) and to raise awareness on the importance of vaccination in protecting every child from this life-threatening disease. Since the World Health Assembly’s commitment in 1988, polio cases have dropped by more than 99%, thanks to the dedication of parents, health professionals, and volunteers worldwide.
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Polio:
1. Most infections show no symptoms
Polio can spread silently. Most people infected with poliovirus don’t show any symptoms, yet they can pass the virus to others. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that about 1 in 200 infections leads to irreversible paralysis, and 5–10% of those cases are fatal when breathing muscles are affected.
2. Polio is not gone… yet
Polio remains endemic in a few countries, and as long as one child remains infected, all children are at risk. Since 1988, global cases have fallen from 350,000 annually to just a handful, but full eradication is essential to prevent resurgence.
3. It spreads easily, even from healthy-looking people
Poliovirus is highly contagious, spreading through contact with infected stool or cough and sneeze droplets. Even people without symptoms can unknowingly infect others through shared food, water, or utensils.
4. There’s no cure
Polio has no cure, but safe and effective vaccines provide lifelong protection. Children should receive doses at 2 months, 4 months, 6–18 months, and 4–6 years. Staying up to date with vaccinations is the best way to keep everyone safe.
5. The fight against polio has unlikely heroes
From health workers crossing deserts on camels to community vaccinators trekking through floods, thousands risk hardship daily to reach every child. Thanks to these global efforts, over 16 million people who might have been paralysed can walk today, according to data gathered by Rotary.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call 1-800-473-8440 or 915-479-3484 today to schedule an appointment, or visit www.umcelpaso.org to learn more.
