Polio or flu: understanding the difference

Influenza mainly affects the respiratory system and often causes cough, sore throat, body aches and sudden fever. Poliovirus may cause a mild, flu-like illness, but it can also invade the nervous system. New muscle weakness, severe muscle pain, a stiff neck or back, difficulty swallowing, or trouble breathing are not symptoms to explain away as ordinary flu. Symptoms alone cannot confirm either infection, especially early on. A clinician considers the examination, illness pattern, exposure, travel and vaccination history.

Rest, drink fluids and limit close contact while fever or respiratory symptoms continue. Wash hands, cover coughs and clean frequently touched surfaces. Check immunisation records rather than relying on memory, particularly for children and travellers. Do not start antibiotics without medical advice. Contact a clinician if symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by weakness. Mention any recent travel to, or contact with someone from, an area where polio transmission is a concern.

Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, confusion, inability to stay awake, severe dehydration, a seizure, or new weakness or paralysis. Prompt assessment is also needed for difficulty swallowing or a stiff neck with significant illness. These signs require attention regardless of whether the cause is flu, polio or another condition.

Ask which symptoms point toward a respiratory infection, whether testing is appropriate, whether a polio vaccine dose is due, and what isolation or household precautions are sensible.