Polio is a disease with no cure, but it can be prevented through vaccination. While wild poliovirus types 2 and 3 have been eradicated, type 1 still exists in some parts of the world. Most polio cases show no symptoms, but in some cases, it can cause paralysis or even death. The disease mostly affects children under five years old. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been running global vaccination campaigns to stop polio.
In 2014, WHO declared India polio-free. However, a recent polio case in Meghalaya has raised concerns about polio eradication in India.
Polio Case in Meghalaya
Recently, a two-year-old child in Meghalaya was found to have polio. This case has increased concerns about polio eradication in India. The Indian Health Ministry has said there is no reason to worry because this is a vaccine-derived polio case. But what does vaccine-derived polio mean?
What is Vaccine-Derived Polio?
Polio cannot be treated, but it can be prevented with a vaccine. Children under five are given the vaccine to protect them from the disease. In rare cases, the weakened virus in the vaccine can cause polio. This happens when a child with very weak immunity gets infected from the vaccine. The weakened virus can mutate inside the body and cause infection.
This does not mean the vaccine is unsafe. Polio vaccines are used in many countries. However, in children with very weak immune systems, the virus from the vaccine can enter the bloodstream and cause symptoms of polio.
Who is at Higher Risk?
Certain groups are at higher risk for polio. Children under five are more vulnerable. Pregnant women also face a higher risk. Children with weak immunity or those living in unsanitary conditions are at increased risk. Traveling to countries where polio is not eradicated can also increase the risk of infection.
