Historically, poliomyelitis, a viral disease impacting the central nervous system, led to fatalities, sudden paralysis, and long-term disabilities.

Successful efforts to eliminate polio through vaccination have eradicated wild polio in most regions, although some countries still experience transmission.

Vaccination plays a crucial role in achieving a world free of polio.

Polio in Europe

• An infection caused by a virus affecting the nervous system
• Easily spread through the air and contact with contaminated surfaces
• The primary cause of paralysis and death in children before widespread vaccination
• Europe declared polio-free in 2002 due to successful vaccination programs
• Vaccination is key in preventing polio and its complications

What are the symptoms of polio?

The outcomes of poliovirus infection vary from no symptoms to paralysis and possible death. While most individuals show no symptoms, others may experience mild symptoms, and a small percentage may suffer from paralysis leading to potential lifelong disability.

What are the complications of polio?

Less than 1% of individuals with polio-induced paralysis die due to respiratory muscle immobilization. In rare cases, the poliovirus can cause inflammation of the brain.

How is polio spread?

Polio is highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person through contaminated objects or droplets from infected individuals.

Who is at risk of polio?

Individuals who are not vaccinated, especially children under the age of five, are at risk of contracting polio. Factors contributing to the spread of polio include high population density, inadequate health services, diseases causing diarrhea, and low vaccination rates.

How can polio be prevented?

While there is no cure for polio, vaccination is the best preventive measure to build immunity against the disease. There are two highly effective vaccines available.

Although there is a global focus on discontinuing the use of OPV due to rare cases of circulating weakened virus, some countries still use it to control outbreaks.

How is polio treated?

There is no specific treatment for acute poliomyelitis, only symptom management. Permanent paralysis resulting from polio is irreversible but can be managed and improved.

The most effective protection against polio is vaccination. It is included in childhood immunization schedules in the US and should be administered in four doses.

Since 2000, the US has been using IPV as the primary polio vaccine, while other countries still utilize OPV.

Available vaccines

Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)

• IPV has been the main polio vaccine in the US since 2000 and is administered through a shot

Oral polio vaccine (OPV)

• OPV is not used in the US but is still utilized in other countries

Since 2000, IPV is preferred over OPV to mitigate the risks associated with OPV variants.

Recommendations

Children should receive IPV according to the routine schedule. If doses are missed, they should catch up following the recommended guidelines.

Most adults are likely vaccinated, but those who are not should receive three doses of the vaccine.

Additional doses may be required for partially vaccinated individuals, with a potential booster for high-risk groups.

If you plan to travel outside the U.S.‎

Travelers should ensure they are vaccinated before visiting high-risk polio areas. Accelerated vaccination schedules may be recommended for those with incomplete vaccinations.

Why getting vaccinated is important

Vaccination is crucial in preventing polio and the lifelong risks of paralysis. Untreated polio can lead to severe complications later in life.

In some cases, paralysis caused by polio can be fatal due to the paralysis of breathing muscles.

Polio can be brought into the U.S.

There is still a potential risk of polio for individuals who are unvaccinated or have incomplete doses. A single infected person can reintroduce polio to a region.

It is important to follow the recommended vaccination schedules to protect oneself and others from the risks of polio. Vaccination not only safeguards individuals but also helps in preventing the spread of infectious diseases within communities.

By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself but also contributing to the overall public health by reducing the chances of outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.

Who should get vaccinated

Children: It is recommended for all children to follow the routine IPV schedule, including those traveling internationally.

Adults: Individuals at higher risk of exposure should also receive the vaccine.

Special circumstances such as travel to high-risk areas, working in healthcare, or exposure during an outbreak may require vaccination.

Who shouldn’t get vaccinated

Prior to vaccination, individuals should consult healthcare providers regarding any severe allergic reactions. Those who are moderately or severely ill should postpone vaccination until they have recovered. If the illness is mild, such as a cold, receiving the vaccine is generally acceptable.

It is also important to note that pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before getting vaccinated, as some vaccines may not be recommended during pregnancy.

The vaccine is safe and effective

IPV offers protection against severe poliovirus-related diseases to nearly all individuals who have completed the recommended doses.

• Two doses of IPV provide at least 90% protection.
• Three doses of IPV provide at least 99% protection.

It is important to note that severe allergic reactions to IPV are very rare. However, if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or a rapid heartbeat after vaccination, seek medical help immediately. These symptoms could indicate a serious allergic reaction.

Additionally, while extremely rare, some individuals may develop a neurological condition called Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) after receiving the IPV vaccine. GBS can cause muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and in severe cases, paralysis. If you experience any symptoms of GBS, such as tingling sensations, muscle weakness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away.

Finding and paying for the vaccine

Healthcare providers’ offices are typically the best locations to receive recommended vaccines. Vaccines may also be available at pharmacies, workplaces, health departments, schools, or religious institutions.

Vaccine costs

There are several ways to cover the cost of vaccines:

Health insurance

Most health insurance plans cover vaccine expenses. Before visiting a healthcare provider, check with your provider for in-network vaccine locations.

Vaccines for Children Program

Children may qualify for free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, designed to assist eligible families who cannot afford or access vaccines.

Government-funded programs

In addition to the Vaccines for Children Program, there are other government-funded programs that provide free or low-cost vaccines for individuals who meet certain criteria. These programs aim to ensure that everyone has access to essential vaccines, regardless of their financial situation.

Common questions

What are the childcare & school vaccine requirements?

All states and DC have regulations requiring specific vaccinations for children in childcare or public schools. The CDC recommends four doses of IPV for children prior to school enrollment.

School environments increase the risk of chickenpox transmission due to close contact, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing its spread.

There have been no confirmed cases of polio-related paralysis acquired in the UK since 1984. While poliovirus has been detected in recent sewage samples from London, the risk remains low. It is essential to ensure that both you and your child are up to date with vaccinations and practice good hand hygiene.

Polio vaccination

Preventing polio involves maintaining up-to-date vaccinations administered at specific ages:

• 8, 12, and 16 weeks as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine
• 3 years, 4 months as part of the 4-in-1 pre-school booster
• 14 years old as part of the 3-in-1 teenage booster

All five vaccinations are necessary for complete polio protection.

Contact your GP to verify vaccination status. For children, review their health records. If vaccinations are not up to date, schedule an appointment for free NHS vaccinations.

In addition to person-to-person transmission through contaminated feces, polio can also be spread through contaminated food and water. This is why maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing hands before eating and drinking clean water, is important in preventing the spread of the virus.

It is also worth noting that polio can be asymptomatic, meaning that individuals can carry and spread the virus without showing any symptoms. This is why vaccination is crucial in providing immunity and preventing outbreaks of the disease.

For those traveling to regions where polio is still endemic, it is recommended to ensure that vaccination is up to date and to take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to the virus.

Symptoms of polio

Most cases of polio present with no symptoms. Mild symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headaches, and muscle pain, may occur and last up to 10 days.

Serious symptoms can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, which can be life-threatening if it impacts the ability to breathe.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if you or your child:

• Partial or complete paralysis or difficulty breathing

If experiencing these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Urgent advice: Get advice from 111 now if:

If you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned, seek medical advice for appropriate care.

• If symptoms persist after 7 days
• If you are 65 or older, pregnant, or have underlying health conditions
• If a child displays concerning symptoms

Treatments for polio

While there is no specific treatment for polio, supportive care can help alleviate long-term issues with measures such as bed rest, pain relief, and physical therapy if necessary.

Complications of polio

Polio can lead to lifelong challenges, including muscle weakness, joint problems, and swallowing difficulties, with the potential for post-polio syndrome.

Post-polio syndrome

Post-polio syndrome is a condition that can occur years after a person has recovered from initial polio infection. It is characterized by a gradual onset of new muscle weakness, joint pain, and fatigue, which can significantly impact the individual’s quality of life. To manage post-polio syndrome, it is important to work closely with healthcare providers and participate in physical therapy programs.

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) has been used in the US since 2000 and is both highly effective and safe. It is essential to receive all recommended doses for optimal protection against polio. To learn more about IPV, visit the CDC’s Polio vaccination website.

Global polio eradication efforts

Despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines, polio remains endemic in a few countries. Global efforts are underway to eradicate polio completely through vaccination campaigns, surveillance, and response to outbreaks. By supporting these initiatives, we can work together to ensure a polio-free world for future generations.

Who should get vaccinated against polio?

• Children who are not up to date with vaccinations, especially those in high-risk poliovirus communities, should be vaccinated.
• Most adults in the US likely received poliovirus vaccination during childhood.

• Adults and children who were vaccinated for poliovirus outside the US should follow US recommendations. Those who can provide documentation of age-appropriate vaccination with IPV or tOPV are considered fully vaccinated.
• Adults residing or working in areas where poliovirus is present in wastewater and are unvaccinated, under-vaccinated, or unsure of their vaccination status should receive all recommended doses.
• Michigan adults who are unvaccinated, under-vaccinated, uncertain of their vaccination status, or not up to date should consult a healthcare provider or contact the local health department if necessary.
• It is important for travelers to areas where polio is still a risk to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations before traveling. Consult a healthcare provider for specific recommendations based on travel destination and individual health history.

When should children get vaccinated against polio?

Children should receive IPV at specific ages as recommended by ACIP. Those who have not started or are delayed in vaccination should follow the catch-up schedule.

If I am not vaccinated, not up to date with vaccinations, or unsure of my vaccination status, what should I do?

• Adults in high-risk areas who are unsure of their vaccination status should consider vaccination.
• Previous doses of the vaccine can be administered regardless of the time elapsed since the last dose.
• Individuals who begin polio vaccination after the age of 4 should adhere to the schedule and receive 3 IPV doses.
• It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for vaccination and to stay up to date with recommended vaccines.
• Vaccination is a crucial step in protecting oneself and others from preventable diseases.

If I am unsure or can’t locate proof of my or my child’s vaccination status, what should I do?

Residents of Michigan who are uncertain about their vaccination status should seek guidance from healthcare professionals. Maintaining records in the MCIR system is crucial for individuals who have relocated from other states.

Who should get a booster dose?

Travelers heading to regions with a high risk of poliovirus exposure may require a booster dose. High-risk categories include healthcare workers and those who have been in close contact with infected individuals.

What are the possible side effects of polio vaccination?

IPV typically does not result in severe side effects. Mild discomfort at the injection site may occur, but it is usually minor.

Can Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) give people polio?

Since IPV does not contain live virus, it is incapable of causing polio.

What is the oral polio vaccine (OPV), and can it give people polio?

In the United States, OPV is no longer utilized due to the risk of vaccine-derived poliovirus. Since 2000, only IPV has been administered in the country.

How can people pay for the polio vaccine?

The majority of health insurance plans cover the expenses associated with vaccines. Prior to vaccination, individuals should confirm coverage with their providers. For eligible children without insurance, the VFC program can provide assistance with costs.

Get immunized! Make sure you and your children are up to date with polio immunizations.

Local health departments, such as the Oakland County Department of Health, offer free IPV vaccinations. Those interested in receiving the vaccine should contact a healthcare provider or clinic for further information.