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Polio Vaccine for Travel

Polio Vaccine
for Travel

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Polio

Poliomyelitis (polio) is a disease of the central nervous system with potential to cause a paralysis. The virus is transmitted through food or water contaminated by infected human faeces or by direct contact with an infectious person.

Cases of polio still occur in some African and Asian countries.

Vaccination Pricing

£39 Per dose
£39 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Most individuals (about 95 percent) who acquire polio do not develop symptoms. When they do occur symptoms may range from a mild illness with fever, to symptoms of meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) or paralysis.

Prevention

An effective vaccination against polio is available. In addition to vaccination travellers should ensure good personal hygiene and follow advice on prevention of food and water-borne diseases.

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
6 – 85 1 Up to day before* 10 years

*Vaccine most effective when given enough time to become active. Some immunity will be provided for your travels if it’s given up to the day before travel.

Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. The primary mode of polio transmission is through person-to-person contact. Here are the common ways in which polio can be contracted:

  1. Fecal-oral route: The poliovirus is predominantly spread through the fecal-oral route, meaning it can be contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. This can occur due to poor hygiene practices, inadequate sanitation, or contaminated water sources.
  2. Person-to-person contact: The virus can also spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets or secretions from an infected person, such as through coughing or sneezing. This mode of transmission is less common than the fecal-oral route.
  3. Contaminated surfaces: Poliovirus can survive on surfaces and objects contaminated with infected respiratory or fecal matter. Touching these contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection.

It’s important to note that most people infected with the poliovirus do not show any symptoms and may not realize they are carrying the virus. However, they can still spread the virus to others.

Polio is highly contagious, and individuals of all ages can contract the virus. However, children under the age of five are most susceptible to polio and are more likely to develop severe symptoms if infected.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent polio. The polio vaccine, typically administered in multiple doses as part of routine immunization schedules, provides long-lasting immunity against the virus. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and using safe water sources, can help reduce the risk of polio transmission.

Polio can affect individuals of all ages, but certain populations may be at higher risk of contracting the virus and experiencing severe symptoms. The following groups are considered to be at a greater risk of polio infection:

  1. Unvaccinated individuals: People who have not received the polio vaccine or are under-vaccinated are at a higher risk of contracting polio if exposed to the virus.
  2. Children: Polio primarily affects children under the age of five. They are more susceptible to the virus and more likely to develop severe symptoms, including paralysis.
  3. Individuals with compromised immunity: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or certain medical conditions, may have reduced immune responses and are more susceptible to polio infection.
  4. Travelers: Individuals traveling from or to areas where polio is endemic or where outbreaks are occurring are at an increased risk of exposure to the virus. It is recommended for travelers to ensure they are up to date with their polio vaccinations and follow necessary precautions.
  5. Healthcare workers and laboratory personnel: Those working in healthcare settings or laboratories handling specimens containing the poliovirus may face an increased risk of exposure if proper infection control measures are not followed.

It’s important to note that the introduction of polio vaccination programs has significantly reduced the number of polio cases worldwide. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent polio and protect individuals from the virus. Routine immunization, along with maintaining good hygiene practices and ensuring access to clean water sources, is essential in controlling the spread of polio and minimizing the risk to vulnerable populations.

  • Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, can vary in severity from asymptomatic (no symptoms) to severe cases that involve paralysis and even death. Most people who are infected with the poliovirus do not develop any symptoms and may not even realize they have been infected. However, when symptoms do occur, they can manifest in different ways:
    1. Non-paralytic polio: This form of polio accounts for the majority of cases. Symptoms may include:
      • Mild flu-like symptoms: Fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, and muscle aches.
      • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
      • Meningitis-like symptoms: Stiff neck, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and irritability.
    1. Paralytic polio: This is a more severe form of polio that affects a small percentage of infected individuals. Symptoms may include:
      • Initial symptoms similar to non-paralytic polio: Fever, headache, sore throat, and muscle stiffness.
      • Progression to muscle weakness or paralysis: This can involve one or more limbs, often asymmetrically. Paralysis may also affect the muscles involved in breathing and swallowing.
      • Loss of reflexes: Diminished or absent deep tendon reflexes.
      • Floppy limbs: Muscles become flaccid and weak, resulting in decreased muscle tone.
      • Permanent disability: In severe cases, paralysis may be permanent, affecting the ability to walk or perform everyday tasks.

    It’s important to note that the majority of polio infections are either asymptomatic or result in mild symptoms. Only a small proportion of infected individuals develop the more severe forms of the disease. If symptoms suggestive of polio occur, medical attention should be sought immediately for diagnosis and appropriate care.

    Vaccination against polio has been highly effective in reducing the incidence of the disease. Routine immunization, along with continued surveillance and monitoring, remains essential in the global effort to eradicate polio.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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The Worcester Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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