Know which are facts or myths about polio

The Philippines has met an unexpected threat with the current circulating poliovirus with the four recent cases declared by the Department of Health in 2019.

As the DOH carries out its synchronized oral polio vaccination program, it is important for everyone to know which are facts and myths when it comes to polio. Knowledge of the difference between the two can be crucial when dealing with polio prevention. Here are some common myths about the disease dispelled by actual facts.

Myth: Polio is not infectious.

Fact: Polio is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. It is transmitted from person-to-person primarily via the fecal-oral route, or less frequently, from food, water and objects contaminated by the virus.

Myth: Only children can contract polio

Fact: People of all ages, even adults, can be infected by polio, although children below five years of age are more at risk because of their weaker immune system.

Myth: Polio can be cured.

Fact: There is no known cure for polio. Early diagnosis and supportive treatment once a patient has the disease can only limit or alleviate polio’s symptoms, which may include fever, paralysis or weakness of both extremities, muscle pain, stiffness of the neck and back, and difficulty of breathing. Vaccination is the best protection against this deadly disease. Cleaning one’s surroundings, practicing good personal hygiene, and washing hands with soap and water are added measures that can counter the spread of the illness.

Myth: Only children can be vaccinated against polio.

Fact: Both children and adults can be vaccinated against polio because, as we mentioned earlier, both children and adults alike can contract the disease. While DOH is prioritizing giving free vaccinations to children under five years of age, it is safe for anyone to have themselves vaccinated by their preferred health providers. Moreover, vaccination for those above 5 years, especially adults, are not recommended by the DOH.

Myth: The oral polio vaccine (OPV) is unsafe.

Fact: The oral polio vaccine or OPV is safe and effective, even for newborns. It is the only proven protection against polio. According to the WHO, more than 18 million people have been protected from polio-caused paralysis in over 30 years of administering the oral polio vaccine.

Myth: The polio vaccine can only be administered once.

Fact: The oral polio vaccine can be given multiple times especially during an outbreak. There is no overdose with the polio vaccine. Each dose gives added protection against the disease and its debilitating effects.

Let us help prevent the spread of the poliovirus. Have your children below five years of age vaccinated against polio. It is safe, effective and free. Watch out for the Department of Health’s vaccination program in your area.

For more information about polio and the Sabayang Patak Kontra Polio campaign, visit doh.gov.ph or call 8711-1001 or 8711-1002.#