Is polio hereditary?

Polio is not hereditary. It is an infectious disease caused by polio virus infection, which is mainly transmitted through fecal-oral transmission or droplet transmission. After infection, the virus invades the nervous system and may cause permanent limb paralysis. The key to preventing polio is vaccination, improving immunity, and maintaining good hygiene habits.

1. Causes of polio

Poliomyelitis is not caused by genetics, but by infection with the polio virus. Usually, the main route of infection is the ingestion of contaminated food or water, which is fecal-oral transmission; droplet transmission is also a mode of transmission. After the virus invades the human body, it will first replicate in the intestines, then enter the blood and attack the nervous system, especially the motor neurons of the spinal cord, causing limb paralysis or even permanent damage.

2. How to prevent polio?

Vaccination is the most effective means of preventing polio. Currently, two vaccines are commonly used: ① Oral Polio Vaccine OPV, which is suitable for early childhood vaccination and can induce mucosal immunity; ② Injectable Inactivated Polio Vaccine IPV, which has the advantage of high safety. In addition, parents should pay attention to children's diet and environmental hygiene, develop good habits such as frequent hand washing, and avoid exposure to virus-contaminated environments.

3. What should I do if I have been infected with polio?

Once infected with polio, you should seek medical attention and receive symptomatic treatment as soon as possible. Some common treatment measures include: ① taking antiviral drugs to curb viral replication; ② cooperating with rehabilitation training to reduce the long-term risk of paralysis; ③ receiving appropriate physical therapy and orthotic support to help patients restore limb function and improve their quality of life. For serious complications caused by infection, further consultation with experts is required to develop a personalized plan.

Polio is not hereditary, but an infectious disease caused by a virus infection. It is preventable and controllable. Parents need to pay attention to children's vaccination and strengthen the formation of hygienic habits. If relevant symptoms are found, they should seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening of the disease. Through scientific prevention and treatment methods, the threat of the disease to children can be effectively controlled and provide protection for healthy growth.