Polio Children

Polio Children
A kitchen in Kwa Mkono, Tanzania, where polio eradication efforts are ongoing.
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Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects children under the age of five, although it can occur in individuals of any age. The disease is characterized by its ability to invade the nervous system, potentially leading to paralysis and, in severe cases, death.

Etiology

Poliomyelitis is caused by the poliovirus, a member of the genus Enterovirus. There are three serotypes of the virus: PV1, PV2, and PV3. The virus is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated water or food.

Pathophysiology

After entering the body, the poliovirus multiplies in the intestine. It can then invade the central nervous system, where it preferentially infects and destroys motor neurons in the spinal cord, brainstem, or motor cortex, leading to muscle weakness and acute flaccid paralysis.

Clinical Presentation

The majority of poliovirus infections are asymptomatic. However, in about 1% of cases, the virus enters the central nervous system and causes paralysis. Symptoms of paralytic polio include:

• Sudden onset of muscle weakness
• Loss of reflexes
• Severe muscle pain
• Flaccid paralysis, often asymmetrical

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of polio is based on clinical presentation and laboratory testing. Detection of poliovirus in stool samples or throat swabs confirms the diagnosis. Serological tests can also detect antibodies to the virus.

Prevention

The most effective way to prevent polio is through vaccination. The polio vaccine is available in two forms: the inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) and the oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV). Global vaccination efforts have significantly reduced the incidence of polio worldwide.

Treatment

There is no cure for polio; treatment focuses on supportive care. This includes:

• Pain management
• Physical therapy to prevent deformities and improve mobility
• Mechanical ventilation in cases of respiratory muscle involvement

Epidemiology

Polio was once a global epidemic, but widespread vaccination campaigns have led to its near eradication. As of 2023, polio remains endemic in only a few countries, with ongoing efforts to achieve complete eradication.

Public Health and Eradication Efforts

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) is a public-private partnership that has been instrumental in reducing polio cases by over 99% since its launch in 1988. Efforts focus on immunization, surveillance, and outbreak response.

Also see

• Poliovirus
• Polio vaccine
• Global Polio Eradication Initiative
• Infectious diseases