Poliomyelitis and Poliovirus Immunization

Poliomyelitis is an acute, febrile illness characterized by aseptic meningitis and weakness or paralysis of one or more extremities. This chapter reviews the historical background, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of poliomyelitis. It also reviews current issues regarding both inactivated and live, attenuated poliovirus vaccines. The clinical, epidemiologic, and scientific foundations for the control of poliomyelitis were laid in the first half of the 20th century, and eradication has since been achieved through routine immunization programs that use two very effective vaccines, each of which possesses unique advantages and disadvantages.