Poliomyelitis caused by poliovirus type 2
What is Poliomyelitis Caused by Poliovirus Type 2?
Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a highly contagious disease caused by poliovirus. Polio is a virus that is spread through contaminated food and water, and it can cause paralysis and even death. Poliovirus type 2 is one of the three types of poliovirus and is the second most common strain. It has been estimated that around 1 in every 4 cases of polio are caused by type 2.
When someone is afflicted with polio, it can affect the nerves in their spinal cord and brain. This often results in a wide range of mobility problems, including paralysis of the legs, arms, and neck. In some cases, it can also cause respiratory difficulties due to muscle weakness in the chest. It is estimated that around 5–10% of people infected with type 2 poliovirus will permanently lose the ability to move.
How Can Polio Caused by Poliovirus Type 2 Be Prevented?
The best way to protect yourself from polio is to get vaccinated. There are two types of polio vaccines that are available in most countries. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is an injection that is typically given to children. The oral polio vaccine (OPV) is a weakened form of the poliovirus that is taken orally. Both types of vaccine are highly effective in preventing the infection.
It is also important to practice good hygiene and handwashing to help reduce the risk of infection. Avoid drinking or eating food that may have been contaminated, and try to prevent others around you from coming into contact with potentially contaminated items.
What Are the Symptoms of Polio Caused by Poliovirus Type 2?
The symptoms of polio caused by type 2 poliovirus vary from person to person. The most common signs and symptoms are:
- Fever
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
- Stiff neck
- Tiredness
- Painful or tender muscles
- Limb weakness or paralysis
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of reflexes
- Decreased muscle tone
In some cases, the symptoms of polio caused by type 2 poliovirus may be invisible or may not cause any symptoms at all.
How Is Polio Caused by Poliovirus Type 2 Diagnosed?
If you have any of the symptoms of polio, it is important to visit your doctor. They may recommend tests to determine if you have been infected with the poliovirus. These tests may include a physical exam, a throat swab, and a blood test. Your doctor may also recommend an electromyography (EMG) or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test to assess the severity of your paralysis.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all countries monitor cases of polio and use laboratory tests to confirm cases. If polio is suspected, samples should be sent to a specialized laboratory for testing.
How Is Polio Caused by Poliovirus Type 2 Treated?
There is no cure for polio caused by type 2 poliovirus. Treatment is aimed at addressing the symptoms, which may include muscle pain, weakness, and paralysis. Your doctor may recommend medications to help reduce pain, spasms, and inflammation. They may also recommend physiotherapy and exercise to help increase strength and mobility.
Preventative measures are also important. To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene and sanitation. These measures can help ensure that the virus does not spread.