October 24 is World Polio Day. This is an opportunity to look at how far the world has come in the fight against polio and a reminder that there is still work to be done. Polio is caused by poliovirus and it can be devastating, lead to paralysis, breathing issues, or even death.
Many people who get polio don’t show symptoms and can still spread it. When symptoms appear, they may be as mild as a fever or as serious as paralysis. There’s no cure and vaccines still remain the best protection.
Currently polio is present in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and vaccine-derived outbreaks pop up where vaccination rates are low. That’s why vaccination drives, strong disease tracking, and quick action when cases surface is crucial to fighting polio.
Since fever is often one of the first signs, regular temperature checks are important. A reliable thermometer like Exergen’s Temporal Artery Thermometers gives families and caregivers a quick, gentle, and reliable way to check for fevers with just a gentle swipe across the forehead.
World Polio Day is a celebration of progress and a reminder to keep fighting. Continued vaccination, support for healthcare workers, and staying united will help create a polio-free future.
Sources,
- CDC, https://www.cdc.gov/global-polio-vaccination/world-polio-day/index.html
- Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polio/symptoms-causes/syc-20376512
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