General Medical Information

Poliomyelitis

Frank E. Lucente
Samir Shah
Roger Kula

Poliomyelitis is a viral illness usually affecting children. It has been almost eliminated in the United States through vaccination. When poliomyelitis does occur, there usually are several cases in a community. The onset of disease is acute and is characterized by fever, muscle weakness, tight neck muscles, decreased deep tendon reflexes, and dysphagia. Examination of the cerebrospinal fluid shows acute meningitis.