Poliomyelitis
General Information
Polio occurs when the polio virus enters through the mouth and replicates in the pharynx, GI tract, and local lymphatics which leads to a viral spread along nerve fibers and eventual destruction of motor neurons causing paralysis.
- Polio overview
- Polio vaccination information
- Polio vaccine information statement
- Public immunization record access
- Polio journal articles
- Polio photos
Information for Providers
This is a Wisconsin Disease Surveillance Category I disease:
- Report IMMEDIATELY by TELEPHONE to the patient's local health department upon identification of a confirmed or suspected case. The local health department shall then notify the state epidemiologist immediately of any confirmed or suspected cases. Within 24 hours, submit a case report electronically through the Wisconsin Electronic Surveillance System (WEDSS), by mail or fax using an Acute and Communicable Disease Case Report, F-44151 (Word), or by other means.
- DHS Communicable Disease Reporting
Wisconsin case reporting and public health follow-up guidelines:
- Case Reporting and Investigation Protocol (EpiNet): P-01977 Polio virus infection (PDF)
- Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations
Contact Information
Wisconsin Local Health Departments – Regional offices – Tribal agencies
Last Revised: October 7, 2021