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Pennsylvania DOH issues poliovirus health advisory and recommendations
UPMC Health Plan·PA · Infectious Disease, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics +2 more·Provider Announcement
We identified it
Aug 7, 2026
Summary
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has issued a health advisory alerting providers to consider polio as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with acute muscle weakness, particularly those unvaccinated or under-vaccinated. Providers must contact local/state health departments if polio is suspected and should proactively schedule vaccine appointments for unvaccinated patients in their practice.
Action Required
Immediately: Clinical staff should be aware of polio symptoms (sudden onset limb, facial, oropharyngeal, or respiratory muscle weakness) and consider polio in differential diagnoses for at-risk patients. Providers must contact Pennsylvania DOH (1-877-724-3258) or local health department if polio is clinically suspected. Front desk and scheduling staff should identify and contact patients not up-to-date on polio vaccination to schedule appointments. No billing system changes required at this time.