Polio Children

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Polio Children
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Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The virus primarily affects children under the age of five, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. The disease has been a major public health concern, particularly before the development of effective vaccines.

Pathophysiology

Poliovirus is a member of the genus Enterovirus, part of the family Picornaviridae. It is a small, non-enveloped virus with an RNA genome. The virus is transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated water or food. Once ingested, the virus multiplies in the intestine and can invade the nervous system, leading to the destruction of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem.

Clinical Presentation

The majority of poliovirus infections are asymptomatic. However, in about 1% of cases, the virus invades the central nervous system, leading to the following clinical manifestations:

• Abortive poliomyelitis: A mild, non-specific illness with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and malaise.
• Non-paralytic aseptic meningitis: Characterized by headache, neck stiffness, and back pain.
• Paralytic poliomyelitis: The most severe form, leading to acute flaccid paralysis. This can result in permanent disability or death if respiratory muscles are affected.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of polio is primarily clinical, supported by laboratory tests. 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. There are two types of vaccines:

• Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV): Administered via injection, IPV is safe and effective in preventing polio.
• Oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV): Administered orally, OPV is easy to administer and provides intestinal immunity, which helps prevent the spread of the virus.

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 for patients with respiratory muscle involvement

Global Eradication Efforts

Significant progress has been made towards the eradication of polio, with cases reduced by over 99% since 1988. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has been instrumental in these efforts, focusing on vaccination campaigns and surveillance.

Challenges

Despite progress, challenges remain in eradicating polio, particularly in regions with political instability, poor infrastructure, and vaccine hesitancy. Continued efforts are necessary to achieve a polio-free world.

Also see

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