Martha Lillard, last U.S. polio patient using iron lung, dies at 78 in Oklahoma
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By
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Associated Press
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July 13, 2026
Clinical Report: Martha Lillard, Last U.S. Polio Survivor, Passes Away
Overview
Martha Lillard, the last U.S. polio survivor reliant on an iron lung, died at 78. Her death was attributed to chronic pulmonary failure and post-polio syndrome.
Background
Polio was once a leading cause of paralysis in children in the U.S., with widespread outbreaks before the introduction of vaccines in 1955. The disease has been effectively eliminated in the U.S. since 1979, but survivors like Lillard often face long-term health challenges, including respiratory issues.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available in the article.
Key Findings
- Martha Lillard was diagnosed with polio at age 5 and relied on an iron lung for respiratory support.
- She was the last known U.S. patient to use an iron lung, a device that helped her breathe for decades.
- Lillard's death was attributed to chronic pulmonary failure and post-polio syndrome, with long-haul Covid-19 as a contributing factor.
- Despite her disabilities, Lillard led an active life, including education and creative pursuits.
- She married Baha Salh shortly before her death, having met him online.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals should be aware of the long-term respiratory complications faced by polio survivors.
Conclusion
Martha Lillard's passing marks the end of an era for those reliant on iron lung technology.
Related Resources & Content
- CDC, Polio Vaccine Recommendations, 2025 -- Polio Vaccine Recommendations
- WHO, Polio eradication strategy 2022-2026, 2022 -- Polio eradication strategy 2022-2026
- Historical and Potential Modern Uses of Negative-Pressure Ventilation for Critically Ill Patients, 2021 -- Historical and Potential Modern Uses of Negative-Pressure Ventilation
- The ASCO Post — CURE Media Group Announces Recipients of 2020 Lung Cancer Heroes Award
- The ASCO Post — TV Celebrity Valerie Harper Joins Lung Cancer Foundation in Raising Awareness
- The ASCO Post — Janet L. Rowley, MD:
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- Polio Vaccine Recommendations | Polio | CDC
- Polio eradication strategy 2022-2026: delivering on a promise, extension to 2029
- Historical and Potential Modern Uses of Negative-Pressure Ventilation for Critically Ill Patients
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