Polio

Definition

Polio is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus, which can lead to paralysis and in severe cases, death. It primarily affects children and is preventable through vaccination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The poliovirus is a member of the Enterovirus genus within the Picornaviridae family.
2. Polio can be spread through fecal-oral transmission or, less commonly, via contaminated water and food.
3. There are three serotypes of poliovirus: PV1, PV2, and PV3; all can cause paralysis.
4. The Salk vaccine (IPV) uses an inactivated virus while the Sabin vaccine (OPV) uses a live attenuated virus.
5. Antiviral drugs for polio are not currently available; prevention relies heavily on immunization.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for poliovirus?
• Name the three serotypes of poliovirus that can cause polio.
• Compare and contrast the Salk and Sabin vaccines used for polio prevention.

Related terms

Enterovirus: A genus of viruses that includes poliovirus and other pathogens causing various diseases.

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV): A type of polio vaccine that uses a killed version of the virus to induce immunity.

Live Attenuated Vaccine: A vaccine created from a weakened form of the pathogen that cannot cause disease in healthy individuals.