What is respiratory polio?

Respiratory polio is a severe form of paralytic poliomyelitis that affects the muscles of the respiratory system, including the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. It can lead to respiratory failure and death if not treated promptly.

Respiratory polio is caused by the poliovirus, which is a highly contagious virus that spreads through contact with infected feces or saliva. Symptoms of respiratory polio can include:

* Fever

* headache

* stiff neck

* Muscle weakness

* Difficulty breathing

* Paralysis

Treatment for respiratory polio involves supportive care, such as mechanical ventilation to help the person breathe, and physical therapy to help restore muscle strength. There is no cure for polio, but the polio vaccine can prevent it.

Polio is a rare disease in the United States, thanks to the widespread use of the polio vaccine. However, it is still common in some parts of the world. Travelers to these areas should be vaccinated against polio before travel.