Polio

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

Wisconsin immunization program staff