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The history of polio: from eradication to reemergence
A crippling and life-threatening disease
© Reuters
In the early 20th century, polio was one of the most feared diseases in industrialized countries, paralyzing thousands of children every year. Soon after the introduction of effective vaccines in the '50s and '60s, however, polio was brought under control and practically eliminated in these countries. It took somewhat longer for polio to be recognized as a major problem in developing countries. However, national immunization programs since the '70s have helped to control the disease.
The use of polio vaccines has nearly eradicated the disease worldwide, but two endemic countries remain: Pakistan and Afghanistan. Polio has also reemerged in the Gaza Strip after 25 years, forcing the United Nations and local health authorities to launch a vaccination campaign in the middle of the conflict.
Click on for more about the history of polio.
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