Health officials are trying to reassure Americans that they are taking the necessary steps to protect the public after poliovirus was detected in wastewater samples in New York City, Rockland County, and Orange County..
The virus, which can cause paralysis, has not been detected in any individuals in the United States. However, health officials are urging people to get vaccinated against polio, especially if they live in or have recently traveled to the affected areas..
“The detection of poliovirus in wastewater samples is a serious concern, but it is important to remember that no cases of polio have been reported in the United States,” said Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House’s COVID-19 response coordinator. “We are taking this situation very seriously and are working closely with state and local health departments to investigate and respond.”.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending that all children under the age of 5 who live in the affected areas receive a polio booster shot. Adults who have not been vaccinated against polio should also consider getting vaccinated..
Polio is a highly contagious virus that can spread through contact with infected feces. Symptoms of polio can range from mild flu-like symptoms to paralysis. In severe cases, polio can lead to death..
There is no cure for polio, but the vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. The polio vaccine is typically given in a series of four shots, starting at 2 months of age..
Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated against polio to protect themselves and their loved ones. For more information on polio and the polio vaccine, please visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/polio/index.htm.
