Have you heard this story? A deadly virus sweeps through North America, infecting millions of people. Most people who catch the virus don’t feel sick at all. Others develop only mild, flu-like symptoms.

However, catching the virus sends some people to hospital. These patients may need a ventilator to help them breathe. The lucky ones recover, though they may need months of physiotherapy. Thousands die or develop a long-term disability that changes their lives forever.

The deadly virus that caused these events isn’t COVID-19. It’s polio.