What Are The Symptoms of Polio?

Polio, or poliomyelitis, can present with a range of symptoms, including:

  • Asymptomatic: Many people infected with the poliovirus have no symptoms at all.
  • Minor symptoms: These can include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, fatigue, and muscle stiffness or pain.
  • Non-paralytic polio: Some individuals may experience more serious symptoms such as neck stiffness and stiffness in the arms and legs, but they do not lead to paralysis.
  • Paralytic polio: In rare cases, the virus can attack the nervous system and lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, typically in the legs. This paralysis can be temporary or permanent.

It’s important to note that the majority of polio cases are either asymptomatic or result in mild symptoms. However, the paralytic form of the disease can be severe and lead to lifelong disabilities. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent polio.