Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children. It can lead to paralysis and, in some cases, can be fatal. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available that can prevent polio.

If you are unsure whether you have been vaccinated for polio, you can consult your medical records or reach out to your healthcare provider. They will be able to provide you with information about your vaccination history and recommend any additional vaccinations if necessary.

It is important to stay up to date on all recommended vaccinations to protect yourself and others from preventable diseases like polio. If you have any concerns or questions about vaccines, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional for advice.

Key facts

• Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that can lead to paralysis and even death.
• Caused by the poliovirus, it spreads primarily through contact with infected fecal matter or droplets from a sneeze or cough.
• While the majority of individuals infected with poliovirus show no symptoms, around 1 in 200 cases can result in irreversible paralysis, typically of the legs.
• Vaccination with the polio vaccine is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease and protecting individuals from its severe consequences.
• Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, Australia has maintained its polio-free status since the year 2000, highlighting the effectiveness of immunization in eradicating the disease.

What is polio?

Once widespread, polio is now controlled through vaccination as it is a highly infectious viral infection.

Australia initiated polio vaccinations in 1956 and was declared polio-free in 2000.

What causes polio?

Highly contagious, polio is caused by the poliovirus.

The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, coughs, or sneezes.

Initially affecting the gastrointestinal tract, it can progress to the nervous system.

Vaccination is crucial in preventing the spread of the poliovirus.

What are the symptoms of polio?

Most cases of poliovirus show no symptoms, with some experiencing flu-like symptoms.

Less than 1% of cases lead to severe muscle weakness known as acute flaccid paralysis.

Early signs may include muscle weakness in limbs and breathing difficulties.

Vaccination is essential in preventing potential re-emergence of polio cases.

Acute flaccid paralysis

Acute flaccid paralysis from poliovirus can result in muscle weakness and breathing issues, with some cases leading to permanent paralysis or even death.

If concerned, use the Symptom Checker for assistance.

It is important to note that polio primarily affects young children and can lead to lifelong disability if not prevented through vaccination. The polio vaccine is safe and effective in protecting against the virus, and routine vaccination is crucial in eradicating polio globally.

When should I see my doctor?

If experiencing polio symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Locate healthcare services using the Service Finder.

How is polio diagnosed?

For diagnosis, the doctor will consider travel history and potential exposure to polio.

• Throat, stool, and cerebrospinal fluid samples are collected for testing.

Your doctor will confirm a polio diagnosis by testing a sample from your:

• Throat, stool, and cerebrospinal fluid samples are tested for polio diagnosis.

If diagnosed, health authorities will be notified to trace contacts and prevent further spread.

Prepare for your doctor’s appointment using the Question Builder.

How is polio treated?

While there is no specific treatment for polio, supportive care can aid in recovery.

• Physical therapy assists in recovering from paralysis.
• In severe cases, intensive care with respiratory support may be necessary.

In the past, an iron lung was used for severe cases requiring breathing assistance.

It is important to note that vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps in preventing the spread of polio within communities. The polio vaccine is safe and effective, with minimal side effects. It is usually administered in multiple doses to ensure long-lasting immunity.

In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene habits such as washing hands regularly, especially before eating or preparing food, can help reduce the risk of polio transmission. Maintaining a clean environment and avoiding close contact with individuals who show symptoms of the disease are also important preventive measures.

It is important for healthcare professionals to stay updated on current vaccination recommendations and to educate the public about the importance of immunization. By working together, we can continue to protect individuals and communities from the threat of polio.

Complications of polio

Polio can have long-lasting effects, including post-polio syndrome. Speak to healthcare providers if concerned about polio.

Resources and support

For more information on polio, visit the Polio Australia website and national immunization resources. Contact healthdirect for guidance if unsure of the next steps.

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Need more information?

Explore additional resources on polio to enhance your understanding of the topic.

Poliomyelitis (polio) | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government

Learn about poliomyelitis, its causes, and impacts by visiting Queensland Health website.

Poliomyelitis vaccines for Australians | NCIRS

Find detailed information on polio vaccines and recommendations for Australians from NCIRS.

Poliomyelitis (polio) factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

Discover insights on polio and its effects from Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.

Polio in Australia

Read about the highly contagious poliovirus and preventive measures on AIHW website.

Poliomyelitis fact sheet – Fact sheets

Learn how immunization has combated polio and its current status from NSW Health.

Polio (poliomyelitis) vaccine | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

Access information on polio vaccines, eligibility, and vaccination locations from Australian Government Health.

Polio and the late effects of polio – Better Health Channel

Understand the severity and implications of polio infection for better health decisions from Better Health Channel.

Polio in Australia | Raising Children Network

Recognize the importance of immunization against polio to protect your health and community. Stay informed and take necessary precautions when traveling to polio-risk regions.

Source :

Refer to various organizations for more information on polio, including NCIRS, Australian Immunization Handbook, NSW Health, and others.

Last reviewed: July 2023

For more information, visit the raisingchildren.net.au website

Polio | Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation | SKAI

Polio is an infectious disease that can lead to permanent muscle weakness, paralysis, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening.

Supporting conversations about vaccinations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people | NCIRS

Find resources on vaccinations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other topics from NCIRS, Australian Immunisation Handbook, and more.

For further details, visit the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) website.

Pertussis Guide for Health Care Professionals – Immunisation Coalition

Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection affecting the respiratory system that can cause severe illness and death.

For more information, visit the Immunisation Coalition website.

Immunoglobulins | Pathology Tests Explained

This test measures the levels of immunoglobulins in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid in certain circumstances. For more details, visit the Pathology Tests Explained website.

For more information, visit the Pathology Tests Explained website.

Point of care testing (PoCT) | Pathology Tests Explained

When your doctor orders blood tests, a sample of your blood will be analyzed in the laboratory. For more information, visit the Pathology Tests Explained website.

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No cases of polio-related paralysis have been confirmed in the UK since 1984. Although poliovirus has been found in London sewage, the risk of infection remains low. To minimize the risk, ensure you and your child are up to date with vaccinations and maintain good hand hygiene.

Polio vaccination

The best prevention for polio is staying up to date with vaccinations. The polio vaccine is administered to children at specific ages as part of their routine immunizations.
To be fully protected from polio, it is important to receive all five recommended vaccinations. You can check with your GP to confirm whether you or your child are up to date with the polio vaccine schedule. For children, the personal child health record can also be consulted for vaccination history. If there are any missed doses, it is advised to schedule an appointment with the GP for a free NHS vaccination. Even if you have never received a polio vaccine before, it is never too late to get one, regardless of travel plans. It is recommended to get vaccinated even if you have had polio in the past, as the vaccine defends against multiple strains of the virus.
In London, starting from May 2023, children aged 1 to 11 who are behind on routine vaccinations are being offered polio and MMR vaccines through various healthcare facilities in the city.
For individuals planning to travel internationally, it is advisable to seek advice from healthcare professionals before departure. In addition to routine polio vaccinations, a booster shot may be necessary in some cases. Certain countries mandate proof of vaccination before entry or exit.
Polio is a viral infection transmitted easily from person to person, often through contact with contaminated materials. While the likelihood of contracting polio in the UK is minimal due to widespread vaccination, a small risk remains, especially when traveling to countries where polio is still prevalent. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like issues to more severe complications affecting the nervous system. Immediate medical attention is recommended if signs of paralysis or breathing difficulties arise.
If you are experiencing symptoms similar to the flu, particularly if certain risk factors apply, seeking medical advice is crucial. Treatment for polio focuses on managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications, including physiotherapy and other forms of specialized care.
By following vaccination guidelines and seeking appropriate medical care, the risk of polio-related complications can be minimized for both individuals and communities.