What is the typical management approach for acute paralytic poliomyelitis?

• A. Supportive care including airway management and rehabilitation
• B. Antiviral therapy to clear poliovirus
• C. Immunoglobulin therapy
• D. Physical therapy only, with no monitoring

Answer: (A)

Management is supportive care focused on preserving breathing, preventing complications, and promoting recovery. Poliovirus damages motor neurons and there isn’t a proven antiviral that clears the infection, so treatment centers on what the body cannot yet do on its own. The immediate priority is the airway and adequate ventilation; many patients with paralytic polio can develop weakness of the respiratory muscles, so airway management and ventilatory support as needed are central. Along with that, careful fluid and nutrition support, prevention of pneumonia and other complications, and ongoing monitoring are important.

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery since nerve and muscle function can gradually return or improve with therapy, even though damage to neurons is permanent in many cases. Physical and occupational therapy help regain strength, mobility, and independence over time. Immunoglobulin therapy or antiviral drugs are not part of standard acute management for poliomyelitis.