According to the World Health Organization the global death rate from polio is approximately 0.5%. In other words for every 1000 people infected with the polio virus approximately 5 will die from the disease. However death rates vary depending on the strain of the virus and the geographical region. For example the death rate from polio is higher in Africa than in Europe or North America.
While the overall global death rate from polio is relatively low the disease can still have a devastating impact on individuals and communities. In areas where polio is endemic the disease can cause paralysis disability and death. In some cases survivors of the disease are left with lifelong physical and mental impairments.
Polio is a highly contagious disease that is spread through contact with infected saliva or mucus. The virus can enter the body through the nose or mouth and it can also be spread through contact with contaminated food or water. Once the virus enters the body it attacks the nervous system and can cause paralysis.
There is no cure for polio but it can be prevented through vaccination. The polio vaccine is safe and effective and it is the only way to protect against the disease. Vaccination is especially important for children as they are the most vulnerable to the effects of the disease.
The global eradication of polio is one of the top priorities of the World Health Organization. To date the disease has been eliminated from most of the world but it remains endemic in three countries: Afghanistan Nigeria and Pakistan. The WHO is working with governments and partners in these countries to ensure that all children are vaccinated against polio.
What is the death rate of polio?
Approximately 0.
5 to 1 percent of people who contract polio experience severe muscle weakness and paralysis that can result in death.
