When is childhood immunisation recommended for poliomyelitis?

Poliomyelitis, often called polio, is an infection caused by a virus that can affect the nervous system. Immunisation prepares the immune system before exposure. Polio vaccine is commonly included in a combination vaccine, alongside protection against other childhood infections.

The timing of doses is set by the local programme and may vary with the child’s age, previous vaccination history and travel or outbreak advice. A delayed dose does not automatically mean the whole course has to start again. The clinic can review the record and plan the remaining doses.

Review the child’s immunisation card or electronic record and ask the usual clinic when the next poliomyelitis-containing vaccine is due. Bring the record to every visit. Mention allergies, a previous severe vaccine reaction, current serious illness, or medicines that suppress immunity before vaccination.

If the family has recently moved, ask the new clinic to reconcile records from the previous service. Keep the updated record available for school, travel or medical appointments. More information about the programme is available under [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling, collapse, a seizure, or a child who is hard to wake after vaccination. These signs require immediate assessment rather than routine monitoring at home.

For a child who develops a fever and seems very unwell, has persistent vomiting, or is difficult to comfort, contact a healthcare professional promptly. Injection-site tenderness or brief tiredness can be discussed with the clinic if it does not settle as expected.

Ask which poliomyelitis-containing vaccine is due, how the clinician will fill any gap in the record, and whether the child needs a catch-up visit. Ask what symptoms after vaccination are expected and when to seek help.