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Poliomyelitis — DTM&H MCQ

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ModerateTropical viral infectionsPoliomyelitisDTM&H

A 3-year-old unimmunised child in a conflict-affected area develops fever followed by acute flaccid paralysis of one leg with preserved sensation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Poliomyelitis

Poliomyelitis is the single best answer because asymmetric acute flaccid paralysis with preserved sensation in an unimmunised child is concerning for poliomyelitis. Guillain-Barré syndrome is plausible in a related presentation, but it is less appropriate because it does not fit the key discriminator in this vignette. The teaching point is that acute flaccid paralysis surveillance is a core public health response.

Reference: WHO disease outbreak guidance; UKHSA travel-associated infection guidance; CDC Yellow Book 2026