What should you know about the history of polio?

Poliovirus spreads mainly through contact with contaminated faecal matter and can enter the body through the mouth. Many infections cause no obvious illness, while some cause fever, tiredness, headache, nausea, or stomach symptoms. In a small proportion of infections, the virus affects the nervous system and can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, including difficulty breathing.

Before vaccination became available, outbreaks caused fear because children and adults could suddenly lose movement. The development and widespread use of polio vaccines sharply reduced transmission in many parts of the world. Eradication efforts rely on keeping communities protected, finding infections quickly, and responding to any detected transmission.

Vaccination is the main way to prevent polio. Follow the UAE immunisation schedule and keep records available when travelling or changing healthcare providers. Children may need scheduled doses, and some travellers require advice based on their destination and previous vaccination history.

Handwashing after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food supports infection control, although hygiene cannot replace vaccination. If you are unsure whether a child has received the recommended doses, ask a clinician or vaccination service to check the record. Learn more about [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Seek urgent medical help for sudden weakness, loss of movement, trouble swallowing, or breathing difficulty, especially after a febrile illness or possible exposure. These symptoms need prompt assessment because several conditions can affect nerves and muscles, and early evaluation helps guide safe care.

Ask which polio vaccines are recorded, whether any dose is due, and whether travel plans change the advice. You can also ask what symptoms should prompt urgent review after a possible exposure.