What should you know about vaccination against poliomyelitis?

Poliomyelitis, also called polio, can spread through contaminated hands, food or water. In some cases it causes weakness or paralysis. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise the virus and helps protect both the individual and the wider community. Protection is built through the schedule advised for the person’s age and circumstances; an incomplete schedule may need catch-up planning.

Check the child’s or adult’s immunisation record and book any missed doses with a healthcare service. Tell the vaccinator about a serious reaction to a previous dose, a significant immune problem or an acute illness. Keep routine handwashing in place, especially after using the toilet and before handling food. If travelling, ask early whether additional advice is needed for the destination.

Polio can resemble a mild viral illness at first, but new limb weakness, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing or breathing, or sudden loss of movement requires emergency assessment. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe. A healthcare professional can also assess persistent fever, neck stiffness or unusual drowsiness, especially after possible exposure.

Ask whether the vaccination record is complete, whether catch-up doses are needed, which formulation is planned, and whether travel or an immune condition changes the schedule. Ask what symptoms should prompt urgent help.