Introduction to the polio vaccine

Vaccination prepares immune defences before exposure to the virus. Depending on the programme and a person's circumstances, protection may involve an injected vaccine, an oral vaccine, or both. Doses are spaced so protection can build and be maintained. Vaccination does not treat weakness or paralysis caused by an existing illness. A person who has missed doses may still be able to catch up, but the exact plan depends on age, previous records, health, and travel.

Bring your vaccination record to a clinic and ask which doses are documented and which may be needed. If records cannot be found, a healthcare professional can explain reasonable next steps. Tell the vaccinator about serious previous reactions, immune problems, pregnancy, current illness, and medicines. Mild soreness or a short-lived fever can occur after vaccination; rest, fluids, and advice from a pharmacist may help. Keep following the local childhood immunisation schedule.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly if a reaction after vaccination is worrying or does not settle. Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or widespread hives soon after a dose. These reactions are uncommon, but rapid treatment matters. A new illness with weakness, trouble swallowing, or breathing difficulty is urgent regardless of vaccination status and needs immediate assessment.

Ask which vaccine product is recommended, how many doses are recorded, whether catch-up vaccination is needed, and what to do if a dose was delayed. If you are travelling, ask whether your schedule should be reviewed before departure.