Complications of polio vaccine

The injected polio vaccine can leave a tender, red or swollen area and may cause tiredness, headache or a mild fever. Oral polio vaccine, where used, has different considerations and should be discussed with the vaccination team. Temporary symptoms after a dose do not mean the person has developed polio.

A serious allergic reaction is rare but can affect breathing, blood pressure or alertness. A seizure, persistent weakness or a rapidly worsening illness should not be dismissed as an ordinary vaccine response. Tell the clinician about previous vaccine reactions, immune conditions and medicines before any dose.

Offer fluids and rest, and keep clothing comfortable if there is a fever. A cool cloth may help a sore injection site. Check the temperature when needed and use a suitable pain or fever medicine only after following professional or package advice for the person’s age and health.

Keep the immunisation record and write down the timing of symptoms. Contact the vaccination clinic if the reaction interferes with feeding, drinking, sleep or usual behaviour. Routine Childhood Immunisation advice can help you prepare for future doses.

Call emergency services for difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the mouth or throat, widespread hives, fainting, collapse or inability to wake normally. These symptoms can indicate a severe allergic reaction.

Seek urgent medical review for a seizure, new marked weakness, repeated vomiting, severe dehydration, or a fever with a child who looks seriously ill. Timing alone cannot prove that a symptom was caused by vaccination, so give the clinician the vaccine name and symptom record.

Ask which vaccine type was given, which reactions are expected, what should be reported, and whether a prior reaction changes future doses. Ask how to manage fever and where to seek help outside clinic hours.