UNAIR NEWS – Dokter UNAIR TV podcast was aired on its official YouTube channel on Friday, January 5, 2024. The podcast explored “Polio re-emergence: What to be aware of?”
Dokter UNAIR TV featured Dr. Dominicus Husada dr DTM&H MCTM(Tp) SpA (K), the Head of Child Health Division, Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital.
He stated that polio had been depicted thousands of years ago in reliefs found in temples. Symptoms vary, but in most cases, it causes paralysis of the leg or other muscles.
“Though it usually causes paralysis of the legs, it can paralyze any muscle. The most dangerous case is when paralysis affects the breathing muscles, resulting in death. Patients with paralysis in their legs usually survive,” he said.
Early symptoms of polio
Dr. Dominicus stated that the early mild symptoms of polio could only be confirmed through lab testing. The most evident symptom is muscle paralysis.
“If the poliovirus attacks the brain’s membrane, there may be slight but not severe alteration in consciousness. However, if the virus attacks the respiratory muscles, the patient may stop breathing due to respiratory muscle paralysis. This results in the patient’s death within a short amount of time. As a result, the virus’ impacts are determined by where it attacks and the severity of its impact on the body,” he said.
Dr. Dominicus recommended visiting a medical facility immediately if one notices any unusual symptoms. Patients are not required to see a specialist; they can see a general practitioner. The doctor will refer the patient to an advanced medical facility if polio is confirmed.
There is no cure for polio. Because the dead poliovirus cannot be revived, blocking its spread is the most effective method of polio prevention.
Polio prevention
Poliovirus cannot be fully eradicated. There is no other option but to immunize humans against the virus. As this virus enters the body through the mouth and spreads through human feces, hygiene is important in preventing its spread.
“Make hand washing a habit. Build a proper restroom facility. Last but not least, immunization,” he said.
The statement ‘polio-free Indonesia’ in 2014 is a notable result of the immunization program. Unfortunately, polio cases have lately emerged in Indonesia. Hence, the pediatrician reminds the community, especially children, to get vaccinated.
“We conduct immunizations. There is no other option but to immunize humans against the virus. This weakens the virus, making it more unlikely to infect others,” he concluded.
Author: Muhammad Badrul Anwar
Editor: Nuri Hermawan
