Polio Vaccination

Should I get vaccinated?

Poliomyelitis, better known as simply “polio”, is a viral infection that can cause serious and permanent disability.

The poliovirus is caught from contaminated food, water and body fluids and there isn’t a cure.

Although polio cases have dropped dramatically since the introduction of the vaccine, people do continue to catch the disease in Pakistan, Nigeria and Afghanistan. If you’re travelling to one of these places (or anywhere else!) and haven’t had the full course of shots, come and get a boost, preferably at least 6–8 weeks before you leave.

A polio vaccination is recommended for everyone living in Australia. It is part of the National Immunisation Program for children, which means it’s free!

Book a polio vaccination

How do I get vaccinated?

Polio vaccination used to be a few drops of a slightly bitter tasting liquid, but now it’s a short course of jabs.

Babies and children can get theirs for free, and adults who might not have had the full vaccine are also recommended to get it. Especially if you are planning to travel to a place where polio is more likely.

It’s not usually recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Or if you have had a serious reaction to a previous shot of the vaccine.

If you’re not sure, have a chat with us and we can help.

We can also help you with other vaccinations and health advice, including travel health.

Disease facts

Polio is easily passed from person to person by direct contact or contaminated food or water. This is usually in places with poor sanitation and unsafe water that gets contaminated by faeces (poo).

Lots of people do not have symptoms, but are still contagious.

For people who do get symptoms, the disease attacks the central nervous system, which means that it can cause partial or full paralysis. A small percentage of children and a larger number of adults pass away, often because the paralysis stops them from being able to breathe.

Polio symptoms

Symptoms include:

The disease can also be fatal.

Preventing disease

Your best protection is vaccination and you should also practice good personal hygiene with regular hand washing or sanitising.

In places where the tap water is not safe to drink, stick to hot food and drinks or water that has been boiled, bottled drinks, or take your own water purifying tablets, filter or UV water purification device.