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Post Polio Syndrome

All articles tagged with #post polio syndrome

health10 hours ago•26 min saved

Oklahoma polio survivor, final iron lung patient in the U.S., dies at 78

Martha Lillard, who contracted polio at age 5 and spent much of her life in an iron lung, died in Shawnee, Oklahoma on June 26 at 78. She was the last U.S. polio patient to rely on the iron lung, defying doctors’ early predictions, and her sister says long-haul COVID-19 contributed to her death; the death certificate lists chronic pulmonary failure and post-polio syndrome as causes. Lillard led a mostly homebound life, but stayed connected online, even meeting her husband after years of online chats.

via New York Post|

#health #iron-lung #long-covid

health4 months ago•5 min saved

Polio fears surge as US weighs rethink of routine childhood vaccines

As a leading US vaccines adviser hints at revisiting routine childhood immunizations, experts warn a polio resurgence is possible if vaccination rates fall, noting that polio has no cure and survivors face lifelong disability; with few clinicians experienced in post-polio care and vaccination skepticism rising, the article argues that maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks and that ready vaccine supplies and rapid response are crucial.

via The Guardian|

#health #outbreak-preparedness #polio

health2 years ago•4 min saved

"The Enduring Impact of Post-Polio Syndrome: My Grandfather's Journey"

The reemergence of polio in various parts of the world is attributed to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including lockdowns, strained public health systems, and vaccine hesitancy. While efforts are being made to eradicate polio, the disease still poses a threat, particularly to those who develop paralytic polio. Post-polio syndrome, a poorly understood condition, often affects polio survivors years later, leading to a second epidemic of debilitating symptoms. The author shares the personal experience of her grandfather's battle with post-polio syndrome and emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance in preventing the resurgence of polio.

via The Washington Post|

#global-health #health #polio