What to expect from childhood immunisation for poliomyelitis

The vaccine trains the immune system to recognise poliovirus before a child encounters it. The polio component may be included in a combination vaccine, so the appointment can protect against more than one infection. The clinician checks the child's record and health on the day, then explains which dose is due.

A child may be unsettled, sleepy, or have soreness, redness, or swelling where the injection was given. A mild temperature can occur. These reactions generally settle without specific treatment, but the clinician can explain suitable comfort measures for the child's age.

Bring the child's immunisation record and tell the clinician about previous vaccine reactions, current illness, allergies, or medicines. Comfortable clothing that allows access to the upper arm or thigh can make the appointment easier.

Offer fluids, keep the child comfortable, and watch them after leaving. Follow the clinician's advice about any medicine; do not give a medicine simply to prevent a reaction unless advised. Keep the next appointment if another dose is due.

Contact a clinician promptly if the child is difficult to wake, has breathing difficulty, develops facial swelling, or seems seriously unwell after immunisation. Seek urgent help for a severe allergic reaction. For a persistent high temperature, worsening swelling, or concerns that do not settle, ask a healthcare professional for advice.

Ask which polio vaccine is being given, whether it is part of a combination vaccine, which dose is due next, and which reactions should be expected. You can also ask how to comfort your child and what to do if an appointment is missed.