Polio facts: symptoms, spread and prevention

Poliovirus commonly enters through the mouth and multiplies in the digestive tract. Many infections cause no obvious symptoms, while others cause a mild illness with fever, tiredness, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort or sore throat. In a smaller group, the virus reaches the nervous system. This can lead to severe muscle pain, stiff neck or back, weakness, and paralysis. Breathing muscles can also be affected. A person may spread the virus before knowing they are infected, which makes community protection especially valuable.

Check that children and adults in your household are up to date with the vaccination schedule recommended in the UAE. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet or changing nappies and before preparing or eating food. Use safe water and food practices, and avoid sharing cups or utensils with someone who is unwell. If you may have been exposed or have symptoms after travel, contact a clinician and mention the travel or contact history. There is no specific medicine that removes poliovirus; care focuses on symptoms and complications.

Seek urgent medical help for new weakness in an arm or leg, trouble walking, difficulty swallowing, a stiff neck with severe illness, or any breathing difficulty. A child with fever who becomes unusually drowsy, weak, or unable to move normally needs prompt assessment. Call ahead if polio is a concern so the clinic can advise on infection precautions. Do not wait for paralysis before seeking help.

Ask which polio vaccine doses are recorded, whether any are due, and whether travel changes the advice. You can also ask which symptoms should prompt same-day assessment and how to protect young children or anyone with a weakened immune system.