The virus persists in the throat for approximately one week after the onset of illness and is excreted in the feces for several weeks or, occasionally, months. There are three types of polio virus. Lifelong immunity usually depends on which type of virus a person contracts. Second attacks are rare and result from infection with a polio virus of a different type than the first attack. There is presently no cure for polio.
Treatment involves supportive care.
Paralysis of the muscles of respiration and swallowing can be fatal. Maintaining high levels of polio immunization in the community is the single most effective preventive measure. Most adults have a minimal risk for exposure to polioviruses in the United States and most are immune as a result of vaccination during childhood. Members of communities or specific population groups with disease caused by wild polioviruses . Check Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Travelers Health Information Website Laboratory workers who handle specimens that might contain polioviruses.