Enteroviral infection which has a predilection to affect the nervous system. Incubation 3-35 days.

Poliovirus (an enterovirus) is transmitted via faecal-oral route. Rare in communities where vaccine uptake is good, worldwide distribution. 

Most infections are asymptomatic.

Paralytic polio: presents as viral meningitis. After fever subsides, secondary fever arises with onset of flaccid paralysis.  Recovery is variable over next 12-18 months.

Microbiology: Virus isolation from faeces, throat swab, CSF, antibody titre 

  (rising titre to enterovirus).

Conservative: Isolation of patient, bedrest, care of pressure areas, 

physiotherapy for paralysed limbs

Medical: Ventilatory support if respiratory muscle involvement,

NG feeding for bulbar paralysis

Vaccination of susceptible contacts

Poor prognosis; 60% mortality in bulbar poliomyelitis

Paralysis, aspiration pneumonia.