What should you know about the polio vaccine?

Polio is an infection that can affect the nervous system. Vaccination prepares immune defences before exposure, reducing the chance that infection will lead to severe disease and helping limit spread within communities. Vaccine schedules vary by age, previous doses, travel plans and local guidance. A person who has missed a dose may still be able to catch up; a clinician can check the immunisation record and recommend the next step. See [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/) for schedule-related information.

Check the child’s or adult’s vaccination record and speak with a healthcare professional if doses are missing, uncertain or needed before travel. Tell the vaccinator about previous reactions, allergies, immune problems, pregnancy or current illness. After vaccination, mild soreness or a short-lived fever can occur. Rest, fluids and the advice given at the appointment are usually appropriate; use any medicine only as directed.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or widespread hives after vaccination. Contact a clinician for a fever that is persistent, a child who is unusually difficult to wake, or symptoms that concern you. These reactions are uncommon, but prompt assessment is the safest response.

Ask which polio vaccine product and schedule apply, whether catch-up vaccination is needed, and whether travel changes the plan. Ask what reaction signs to watch for and how to document the dose.