Poliomyelitis Flashcards
What is Poliomyelitis?
Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a viral infection of the nervous system that can cause paralysis, particularly in children.
What is the causative agent of Poliomyelitis?
Polio is caused by the Poliovirus.
How does the Poliovirus enter the human body?
The virus enters the body through the oral-fecal route, often via contaminated water or food.
What are the early symptoms of Poliomyelitis?
Early symptoms include pyrexia (fever), neck stiffness, and meningeal irritation.
What is flaccid paralysis, and how does it relate to polio?
Flaccid paralysis is muscle weakness where the muscles become limp and unresponsive, a hallmark of poliomyelitis.
What happens when the respiratory muscles are affected by Polio?
Paralysis of the respiratory muscles can lead to breathing difficulties, often requiring mechanical ventilation.
What is the primary method of preventing Poliomyelitis?
Routine immunization of infants with the oral polio vaccine (OPV) or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is the primary preventive measure.
Why are booster doses important in preventing polio?
Booster doses given before school entry ensure continued immunity against the poliovirus.
What are some complications associated with Poliomyelitis?
Complications include myocarditis, pulmonary edema, shock, nosocomial infections, and muscle atrophy.
What is the role of physical therapy in the treatment of Poliomyelitis?
Physical therapy helps prevent long-term disability by maintaining muscle function and preventing atrophy in affected muscles.
How is Poliomyelitis primarily spread?
Poliomyelitis spreads primarily through contaminated water or food in areas with poor sanitation.
What age group is most commonly affected by Poliomyelitis?
Children under the age of 5 are most commonly affected.
What is the global status of Poliomyelitis today?
Thanks to vaccination efforts, polio has been eradicated in most parts of the world but remains endemic in a few countries.
What are the signs that poliomyelitis has progressed to affect the central nervous system (CNS)?
CNS involvement leads to neck stiffness, flaccid paralysis, and meningeal irritation
What is the purpose of national immunization campaigns in countries like South Africa?
These campaigns aim to achieve herd immunity, stop the transmission of the virus, and raise awareness about the importance of vaccination.
What is nosocomial infection, and why are Polio patients at risk?
A nosocomial infection is an infection acquired in a hospital, and polio patients are at risk due to immobility and weakened immune systems, particularly infections of the lungs or bladder.
Why is mechanical ventilation necessary for some Poliomyelitis patients?
Mechanical ventilation is needed when the virus paralyzes the respiratory muscles, preventing the patient from breathing on their own.
What type of paralysis is associated with severe Poliomyelitis?
Flaccid paralysis is associated with severe cases, where muscles become weak and limp.
What are the primary goals of treatment for Poliomyelitis?
The main goal is supportive care to maintain vital functions, including respiratory support and preventing complications like muscle atrophy.
What is fasciculation, and how does it relate to Poliomyelitis?
Fasciculation refers to involuntary muscle twitching, often seen in muscles affected by poliovirus-induced paralysis.
Why is polio called “infantile paralysis”?
It is often referred to as infantile paralysis because it primarily affects children and can result in permanent paralysis.
What are the different types of Poliovirus?
There are three types of Poliovirus: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Type 1 is the most common cause of outbreaks.
How does Poliomyelitis affect the urinary bladder?
Poliomyelitis can cause bladder dysfunction, leading to urinary retention or incontinence.
What are the main public health strategies to eradicate Polio globally?
Strategies include mass immunization campaigns, surveillance for polio cases, and rapid response to outbreaks.
