Polio largely targets the nervous system and can lead to paralysis. On World Polio Day 2024, it’s essential for parents to understand the signs of polio in children.
Ensuring that your child receives all vaccinations on time is crucial, and the polio vaccine is one of the most vital. Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a highly infectious viral disease predominantly affecting children under five. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that the virus spreads from person to person, mainly through the faecal-oral route or contaminated food and water, multiplying in the intestines before potentially reaching the nervous system.
While India marked 13 years of being polio-free this January, awareness remains key to protecting our children. On this World Polio Day, observed on October 24, let's review the common signs of polio in kids.
Common Signs of Polio in Children
Polio symptoms in children can vary, as it majorly impacts the nervous system. Here are some strong signs to look for:
- Fever
While fever can arise from various causes—like seasonal changes or chilled foods—it’s often one of the first indicators of polio. Children with the virus usually experience a high fever.
- Fatigue
Kids are usually energetic and playful. If your child is unusually tired or weak, it’s a sign to pay attention.
- Headache
Many factors can lead to headaches in children, including indulgence in icy treats. However, a headache can further indicate that virus tends to impact on the nervous system.
- Stiffness in the Neck and Back
While adults might experience stiffness from prolonged sitting, children may show muscle stiffness or pain in their neck and back, which can be symptomatic of polio.
- Muscle Weakness or Paralysis
Muscle weakness is the most unequivocal indication of polio in youngsters. In severe situations, this can lead to paralysis, particularly in the legs.
In addition to these symptoms, children with polio may experience sore throats, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or abdominal pain.
Is There a Cure for Polio?
Sadly, there is no cure for polio. However, pain treatment, and physical therapy can all help manage symptoms. Severe cases may necessitate breathing support for youngsters with considerable muscle weakness. The most effective strategy to prevent polio is by immunization. The oral polio vaccine and the inactivated polio vaccine are both successful at immunizing children. The inactivated version is administered via injection, whereas the oral vaccine is taken orally. Good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and avoiding open defecation, can also help slow the spread of the infection.
Global immunization efforts have resulted in a considerable reduction in polio cases. Since 1988, polio cases have decreased by more than 99%, from an estimated 350,000 cases in over 125 countries to only six reported cases in 2021. To keep your child safe and healthy, make sure he or she obtains the polio vaccine before turning five.