4 May 2021
This disease is highly contagious, mainly in children, caused by the polio virus, which can cause paralysis, respiratory problems, and, in extreme cases, death.
The most common form of infection is through direct contact with an infected person who can transmit the virus for several weeks in feces. However, it can also be spread through contaminated food or water.
Poliomyelitis is a serious disease that can be fatal, especially in children under five years old, but anyone who is not vaccinated is at risk of getting it. Although the use of the vaccine has spread worldwide and the number of infections and deaths has decreased significantly, it is an active disease that requires a complete vaccination schedule to avoid contracting the virus.
In most cases, there are no symptoms, but certain people may have flu-like symptoms, with episodes of:
Other symptoms appear in paralytic poliomyelitis, such as:
This type of polio can cause temporary or permanent muscle paralysis, disability, bone deformities, and death.
Some people, years after suffering from the disease, may present the so-called post-polio syndrome characterized by the following symptoms:
Once your doctor analyzes your symptoms and medical history, he or she will perform a physical examination to establish the diagnosis. However, you may be asked for a throat secretions, stool, or cerebrospinal fluid sample to confirm the presence of the polio virus.
As it is a viral condition, there is no cure or specific therapy, but it is usually treated with painkillers, portable ventilators, and physical therapy to prevent muscle and bone deformity.
Prevention:
The best way to avoid this disease, which in extreme cases can affect areas of the nervous system and the brain that control movement and breathing, among other vital functions, is the correct application of the vaccine. However, like any vaccine, it can cause allergic reactions, such as:
If you or your child have any of these symptoms, go immediately to the ABC Medical Center Emergency Room.
In ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we offer health care services with the highest quality and safety, from the prevention, diagnosis, timely treatment, and monitoring of infectious, respiratory, endocrinological, dermatological, rheumatic, nephrological, gastrointestinal, and hematological pathologies of both chronic-degenerative diseases and acute conditions, through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary model.
How can we help you?
Interest-free
months in:
Interest-free
months in:
Specialty Centers
Diagnostic Studies
Check-ups
Hospitalization1
Valid until December 31, 2025. Promotions not cumulative. Subject to restrictions 1. In hospitalization, medical fees are not included. 2. Minimum amount: $1,500 for 3 to 6 months and $3,000 for 7 to 9 months 3. Minimum amount $1,500. (Cards issued abroad are not eligible).