False about Polio –
**Question:** False about Polio -
A. Polio primarily affects children
B. Polio is a viral infection that primarily affects adults
C. Polio is caused by a bacterial infection
D. Polio is eradicated worldwide
**Correct Answer:** B. Polio is a viral infection that primarily affects adults
**Core Concept:** Polio is a viral infection primarily caused by the enterovirus called poliovirus. There are three serotypes (types) of poliovirus: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Poliovirus primarily targets the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and damage.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Polio primarily affects children, as they have not yet developed immunity from previous infections or vaccinations. The poliovirus primarily infects the ENS, leading to a range of symptoms including fever, gastrointestinal issues, and muscle weakness. In some cases, particularly with Type 2 and Type 3 poliovirus strains, the virus can spread to the central nervous system (CNS) causing paralysis, respiratory distress, and, in severe cases, death.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Polio primarily affects children is incorrect because the virus primarily targets the ENS, which is present in all age groups. However, children are more susceptible due to their lower immunity levels.
C. Polio is caused by a bacterial infection is incorrect because poliovirus is a viral infection, not a bacterial one.
D. Polio is eradicated worldwide is incorrect because polio remains a global public health concern. Although the disease has decreased significantly due to widespread vaccination programs, it is still present in some regions. In 2021, there were 20 cases reported globally, mainly in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Polio eradication efforts continue globally to prevent resurgence of the disease.
**Core Concept (in Markdown format):**
The poliovirus belongs to the Picornaviridae family and is an enterovirus. Enteroviruses are responsible for a wide range of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect (in Markdown format):**
A. **Option A:** Polio primarily affects children - This is incorrect because poliovirus targets the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is present in all age groups; however, children are more susceptible due to their lower immunity levels.
B. **Option B:** Polio is caused by a bacterial infection - This is incorrect because poliovirus is a viral infection, not a bacterial one.
C. **Option C:** Polio is eradicated worldwide - This is incorrect because polio remains a global public health concern. Although the disease has decreased significantly due to widespread vaccination programs, it is still present in some regions. In 2021, there were 20 cases reported globally, mainly in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Polio eradication efforts continue globally to prevent the resurgence of the disease.
D. **Option D:** Polio is eradicated worldwide - This is incorrect because polio remains a global public health concern. Although the disease has decreased significantly due to widespread