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Protein is an essential nutrient that plays many important roles in the body. Here are some reasons why protein intake is important. The reason why you have to eat protein Building and repairing tissues Protein is a building block of all tissues in the body, including muscles, bones, skin, and organs. It's necessary for the growth and repair of tissues and helps maintain muscle mass and strength. Enzyme and hormone production Proteins are also important for the production of enzymes and hormones that regulate various body functions. For example, enzymes help break down food in the digestive system, while hormones control the metabolism and growth. Immune system function Antibodies, which help fight infections and diseases, are made of protein. A diet that's low in protein can weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infections. Energy production Protein can also be used as a source of energy for the body, especially when carbohydrate stores are low. Th...
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Polio: Understanding Symptoms and Causes
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Learn the key symptoms and causes of polio to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here's what you need to know about this serious viral disease.
Polio Symptoms and Causes: What You Should Know
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. While many people recover without symptoms, others may face life-altering complications. Understanding the signs and how it's transmitted is the first step to prevention.
What Is Polio?
Polio is a viral illness that primarily affects young children. It spreads through contact with contaminated water, food, or surfaces. In severe cases, it can lead to paralysis, breathing problems, or even death. Thanks to global vaccination efforts, polio is rare in most parts of the world — but it's not completely gone.
Common Symptoms of Polio
Most people infected with polio don't show visible symptoms. However, the virus can still spread to others. When symptoms do appear, they typically include.
Fever
Fatigue
Headache
Vomiting
Stiffness in the neck
Pain in the limbs
In rare cases, the virus invades the nervous system and causes paralysis — usually in the legs.
What Causes Polio?
Polio is caused by the poliovirus, which enters the body through the mouth, often from hands contaminated with feces. It multiplies in the intestine and can spread through communities with poor sanitation. The virus is most contagious before symptoms even appear.
Who Is at Risk?
Unvaccinated children under the age of 5 are at the highest risk. However, anyone who hasn’t been fully immunized can become infected, especially in regions where polio still circulates. Travelers to high-risk countries are also vulnerable.
The polio vaccine is the most effective prevention. There are two types: inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and oral polio vaccine (OPV). Both are safe and highly effective. Additional prevention tips include:
Maintaining good hand hygiene
Using clean water sources
Following local health advisories when traveling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can adults get polio?
Yes, although it’s rare. Adults who are unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated can still contract polio, especially when traveling to high-risk areas.
Is there a cure for polio?
No. There is no cure for polio once infected. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications through physical therapy and supportive care.
Can polio return after recovery?
Some survivors may develop post-polio syndrome (PPS) years later, which includes muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain.
From what I’ve seen in global health updates, polio may not be common today, but it’s still a threat in some regions. Staying informed and vaccinated is essential, especially if you're planning to travel internationally or work in healthcare. Prevention really is the best medicine when it comes to polio.
