On the 7th of March, Israel reported its first-ever Polio case in a gap of three decades since 1989. Subsequently, two more children appear to be infected by the Poliovirus from the samples tested.
Now, for many in the present generation, what might come to mind when they hear Poliovirus is only the mandatory immunization program. However, Polio to those affected is a cruel disease that has made them disabled in many ways.
In the later part of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century, Poliovirus grew to pandemic proportions. Indeed, there are no medications to cure Poliovirus infection until now.
There are historical depictions that indicate the prevalence of Poliovirus-induced disabilities among masses. However, only in 1789, Poliovirus infection was recognized as a distinct disease by English Physician Michael Underwood. Further studies gave it specific names like Haine-Medin disease and Infantile Paralysis.
At least one in a thousand infected by the Poliovirus meets with a paralytic condition. It damages the neurons in their bulbar, bulbospinal, or spinal region and weakens the muscles around. Partial to maximum Paralysis hurt one or more of their limbs, leaving them with lifelong disabilities.
Virologist Hilary Koprowski developed the first Polio Vaccine in 1950. Jonas Salk developed the second based on inactivated Poliovirus in 1952. However, Albert Sabin’s oral Polio vaccine made large-scale immunization easier.
It also paved the way for the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, bringing down the prevalence of Polio by up to 99 percent. A collective global effort came from the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Rotary Foundation.
Polio is an infectious disease that spreads through fecal matter contaminating food and water supply. The virus can transmit from an infected person for several weeks through particles excreted in the feces.
There are minor symptoms from which some people quickly recover. However, that’s not always the case. Polio can also affect the Central Nervous System (CNS) and cause Paralysis. So being neglectful can result in the spread of Poliovirus, yet again.
The Ministry of Health has expanded its investigation to Jerusalem and its adjoining areas in Israel. It has also called parents to get their children vaccinated as per guidelines.
Statistics and data reference: ANI News, The Times of Israel, and Wikipedia