PsychologyAugust 10, 2026

polio

POH-lee-oh

Definition

A highly infectious, disabling, and life-threatening disease caused by a virus that can result in permanent paralysis.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'polios,' meaning 'gray,' in reference to the way the virus specifically attacks the gray matter of the spinal cord.

In the news

The article lists polio as one of the essential childhood immunizations recommended for all children, highlighting the diseases the current vaccine schedule aims to prevent.

Trump issues executive order aimed at rewriting childhood vaccine schedule

Read the full article ↗

Scientific American

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