What should you know about Salk polio?

The Salk vaccine is given by injection and contains inactivated poliovirus components. The immune system responds by making protection that can help prevent poliovirus from reaching the nervous system. It is different from oral polio vaccines, which use a weakened live form administered by mouth.

Vaccination protects most reliably when the recommended series is completed. Protection needs to be considered alongside travel plans, local outbreaks, age, previous doses and health conditions. A vaccination record helps a clinician decide which dose, if any, is due.

Review the person’s immunisation record with a qualified clinician, especially before international travel or when records are incomplete. Do not restart a schedule without advice; a clinic can assess previous documented doses and plan catch-up vaccination when appropriate.

After an injection, mild soreness, redness or a short-lived fever can occur. Rest, drink fluids and use only medicines advised for the person’s age and health history. Tell the vaccinator about a previous serious allergic reaction or an acute illness before the dose.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse or severe weakness soon after vaccination. Contact a clinician for a persistent high fever, a seizure, or symptoms that are severe, unusual or worsening.

Ask which polio vaccine was given previously, which dose is due now, whether travel changes the plan, and which reactions should prompt a call.