Ongoing · Global eradication effort

Global Polio 2026

Afghanistan & Pakistan endemic · GPEI, WHO & CDC

About polio

Cause
Poliovirus, which can attack the nervous system
How it spreads
Mainly fecal-oral (contaminated hands, food or water); also respiratory droplets
Worst outcome
Sudden, permanent paralysis; can be fatal if breathing muscles are hit
Prevention
Vaccination gives safe, lifelong protection

Sources: GPEI Polio This Week · WHO polio fact sheet