How to stop polio now

Polio is an infection caused by poliovirus. It can spread between people, including from someone who has few or no symptoms. Many infections are mild, but the virus can affect the nervous system and cause weakness or paralysis. The risk is reduced when communities maintain strong vaccination protection. Symptoms alone cannot confirm polio, so suspected illness needs professional assessment and public-health guidance.

Check that children have received the vaccines recommended in the UAE schedule, and ask a health professional about any missed doses or travel-related advice. Keep vaccination records available. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, and use safe sanitation practices. Do not delay medical assessment if a child develops unusual weakness, difficulty walking or trouble swallowing.

Seek emergency care for sudden or worsening weakness, loss of movement, difficulty breathing, choking or trouble swallowing. Contact a clinician promptly for fever with marked weakness, neck or back stiffness, or a recent exposure concern. Follow instructions from local health authorities if polio is suspected, because testing and contact advice may be needed.

Are all routine vaccines up to date? Is a catch-up dose needed? Does recent travel change the advice? What symptoms should prompt emergency care?