Poliomyelitis (polio)

Definition

Poliomyelitis (polio) is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus, which primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis. The virus spreads through fecal-oral transmission or, less commonly, through contaminated water or food.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polio primarily affects motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and acute flaccid paralysis.
2. The poliovirus has three serotypes: PV1, PV2, and PV3, with PV1 being the most common and virulent.
3. Vaccination with inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) or oral polio vaccine (OPV) is crucial for prevention and has led to significant reductions in global polio cases.
4. Most individuals infected with poliovirus are asymptomatic, but about 1% of infections result in severe neurological symptoms.
5. There is no cure for polio; treatment focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for poliovirus?
• Which part of the nervous system does polio primarily affect?
• Why are vaccinations critical in controlling the spread of polio?

Related terms

Poliovirus: A highly contagious virus that causes poliomyelitis.

Acute Flaccid Paralysis: A sudden onset of muscle weakness or paralysis associated with diseases like polio.

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): A type of polio vaccine made from killed virus that provides immunity against poliovirus.