What Does Polio Do to the Body?

I remember the first time I saw an iron lung. It was at a museum, tucked away in a corner, its metal frame gleaming under the soft lights. I had read about them in history books, but seeing one in person was different. It was a stark reminder of a time when polio was a looming threat, and the iron lung was a lifeline for many.

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a viral disease that primarily affects children under five. While most infections are mild or asymptomatic, in some cases, the virus can invade the nervous system and cause paralysis. The severity of the disease depends on which part of the nervous system is affected.

The Path of the Virus

Polio enters the body through the mouth, often from contaminated water or food. It multiplies in the throat and intestines before entering the bloodstream. In rare instances, the virus can invade the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the spinal cord and brain stem. This can result in paralysis, particularly in the limbs and respiratory muscles.

The progression of the disease can be rapid. Paralysis typically develops within a week of infection and can lead to permanent disability or death if the respiratory muscles are affected.

Personal Struggles and Lessons Learned

I once met a man named Paul Alexander, known as "Polio Paul." At six years old, he contracted polio during an epidemic in Texas. The virus left him almost completely paralyzed, and he spent over 70 years in an iron lung. Despite his condition, Paul earned a law degree and led a fulfilling life. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

From Paul's journey, I learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Even in the face of overwhelming challenges, it's possible to find purpose and meaning.

The Lingering Effects

Even after recovery, some polio survivors experience post-polio syndrome (PPS) years later. PPS can cause new muscle weakness, fatigue, and pain. These symptoms can be debilitating, but with proper medical care and support, many individuals can manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life.

The Power of Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent polio is through vaccination. The polio vaccine has been instrumental in reducing the incidence of the disease worldwide. However, recent outbreaks in areas with low vaccination rates remind us of the importance of maintaining high immunization coverage.

As we continue to combat polio, it's crucial to ensure that every child receives the vaccine, regardless of where they live. The fight against polio is not just about preventing a disease; it's about protecting the future of our children.

The World’s Triumph Over Smallpox: A Complete Victory?

Smallpox, a deadly disease that has plagued humanity for thousands of years, has a history that extends into pre-history. Genetic evidence suggests that the smallpox virus emerged 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. The earliest physical evidence of smallpox is found in the Egyptian mummies of people who died some 3,000 years ago.

The Scourge of Smallpox

Smallpox had a major impact on world history. Indigenous populations of regions where smallpox was non-native, such as the Americas and Australia, were rapidly and greatly reduced by smallpox during periods of initial foreign contact. During the 18th century, the disease killed an estimated 400,000 Europeans each year, including five reigning monarchs, and was responsible for a third of all blindness. Between 20 and 60% of all those infected—and over 80% of infected children—died from the disease. During the 20th century, it is estimated that smallpox was responsible for 300–500 million deaths.

The Battle Against Smallpox

The World Health Organization launched an intensified plan to eradicate smallpox in 1967. Widespread immunization and surveillance were conducted around the world for several years. The last known natural case was in Somalia in 1977.

Victory Declared

In 1980, the WHO certified the global eradication of smallpox. Smallpox is one of two infectious diseases to have been eradicated, the other being rinderpest, which was declared eradicated in 2011.

But Did We Truly Defeat Smallpox?

While it’s true that smallpox has been eradicated in the wild, the virus still exists in laboratories. This raises the question: have we truly defeated smallpox? The answer is complex. In terms of the disease’s impact on human health, the answer is a resounding yes. No new cases of smallpox have been reported since 1977, and the disease no longer poses a threat to global health.

However, the existence of the virus in laboratories means that there is always a risk, however small, of the disease re-emerging. This could happen through an accidental release or through the virus being used as a biological weapon. Therefore, while we have defeated smallpox as a disease, we have not completely eliminated the threat it poses.

In conclusion, the eradication of smallpox is one of the greatest achievements in public health. However, the continued existence of the virus in laboratories serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance in the face of potential health threats.