Poliovirus

Poliovirus is a virus in the family of Picornaviridae that affects humans by causing a variety of symptoms known as poliomyelitis or polio. It is highly contagious and is spread through contact with an infected person or contaminated food or water. Poliovirus is the leading cause of polio, a debilitating and potentially deadly infectious disease that mainly affects young children. It can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, and even death. There is no cure, so prevention through immunization is the only way to protect against the virus. Vaccines are available that can protect individuals from infection and reduce the spread of the virus.