DefinitionPoliomyelitis is a viral disease that can affect nerves and can lead to partial or full paralysis.Alternative NamesPolio; Infantile paralysis; Post-polio syndromeCauses, incidence, and risk factorsPoliomyelitis is a disease caused by infection with the poliovirus. The virus spreads by direct person-to-person contact, by contact with infected mucus or phlegm from the nose or mouth, or by contact with infected feces.The virus enters through the mouth and nose, multiplies in the throat and intestinal tract, and then is absorbed and spread through the blood and lymph system. The time from being infected with the virus to developing symptoms of disease (incubation) ranges from 5 - 35 days (average 7 - 14 days).Risks include:Lack of immunization against polio and then exposure to polio