Polio: Global Update

Polio has been eliminated from most countries; however it continues to occur in some areas of the world. The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that travellers get vaccinated against poliomyelitis (polio) when going to countries where there is a risk of infection, or countries located near those that are endemic or have cases of recent infection.  For a map of infected districts and a list of countries with confirmed cases of polio, please visit the website of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.  Polio is contagious disease.  It can be prevented by vaccination.  It is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water.   Polio can attack the central nervous system and destroy the nerve cells that activate muscles.  http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/thn-csv/polio-eng.php