For a case of acute flaccid paralysis in a child under 15 years, which combination makes the stool specimen pair 'adequate' for poliovirus isolation under national AFP surveillance standards?
- A Two specimens collected within 14 days of onset of paralysis, at least 24 hours apart, transported to reach the laboratory in good condition ✓
- B Two specimens collected any time during illness, at least 24 hours apart
- C One rectal swab within 48 hours of onset plus one stool sample at discharge
- D Two specimens collected within 28 days of onset, at least 48 hours apart
Correct answer: A. Two specimens collected within 14 days of onset of paralysis, at least 24 hours apart, transported to reach the laboratory in good condition
Explanation
Surveillance adequacy requires two stool specimens taken at least 24 hours apart, both collected within 14 days of the onset of paralysis, and arriving at the laboratory in good condition, traditionally interpreted as reaching the reference laboratory within 3 days of collection with proper reverse cold chain. B single specimen can never constitute an adequate pair regardless of timing, and the 28 day window is not part of the standard.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.