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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
07:23
Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
Published on: June 9, 2011
West Nile virus and "poliomyelitis"
1Division of Viral and Rickettsial Diseases, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, MS A-39, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. zea3@cdc.gov
Neurology
|July 28, 2004
Summary
West Nile virus (WNV) can cause acute flaccid paralysis. This WNV-associated weakness resembles poliomyelitis, prompting discussion on appropriate terminology for this neurological syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) is increasingly linked to acute flaccid paralysis.
- WNV-induced neurological syndromes share features with poliovirus infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the nomenclature of WNV-associated acute flaccid paralysis.
- To explore the historical context of the term 'poliomyelitis' in relation to WNV.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical, histopathologic, and electrophysiologic characteristics of WNV-associated weakness.
- Historical analysis of the term 'poliomyelitis'.
Main Results:
- WNV-associated paralysis exhibits characteristics similar to poliomyelitis.
- The term "WNV poliomyelitis" is proposed as potentially appropriate.
Conclusions:
- The clinical presentation of WNV-induced paralysis mirrors poliomyelitis.
- Further discussion among neurology and infectious disease experts is needed to standardize terminology for this WNV manifestation.
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