What should you know about epi polio?

Poliovirus usually enters the body through contaminated food, water or contact with infected faeces. Many infections cause no clear symptoms, while some cause fever, sore throat, nausea, stomach upset or limb pain. A smaller group develops weakness or paralysis when the nervous system is affected.

Because a person can spread the virus without looking ill, vaccination protects the individual and reduces opportunities for transmission. Immunisation schedules vary by country and age, so the child’s record is useful when checking protection.

Check that routine polio vaccinations are recorded and ask a clinician whether any dose is due or has been missed. Handwashing after toilet use and before preparing food, safe drinking water and good sanitation reduce exposure. Do not share needles or personal items that may be contaminated with body fluids.

If someone has possible exposure or develops an unexplained fever with weakness, contact a healthcare professional promptly and mention travel, vaccination history and any known outbreak information.

Seek urgent medical care for new weakness, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing, breathing difficulty, or paralysis. A child who becomes unusually drowsy, cannot drink, or has rapidly worsening weakness needs immediate assessment.

Ask whether the vaccination record is complete, whether catch-up immunisation is needed, and what symptoms should prompt isolation or testing. If travel is planned, ask whether additional advice applies to the destination.