Polio

Polio is a disease that affects the nerve cells in the spinal cord. Although the polio vaccine has eliminated polio disease in most countries, it can still be found in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria, and can be brought to other countries by infected people travelling on planes.

How is polio spread?

Polio is spread through contact with the bowel movements (stool) of an infected person. This can happen by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the stool of an infected person.

What are the symptoms of polio?

Most people infected with polio do not show any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can include

• Headache
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Neck and back stiffness
• Muscle weakness and pain

What are the risks of polio disease?

• Paralysis of the arms and legs (1 in 200)
• Death

How can I prevent getting polio?

The best way to not get polio is to get immunized. The polio vaccine is safe. It is much safer to get the vaccine than to get the disease. When you get immunized, you help protect others as well. There is no cure for polio, so preventing the disease is very important.

The polio vaccine is given free (publicly funded) as part of the B.C. routine immunization schedule. The vaccine is often combined with other vaccines to give protection against several diseases in one shot. Adults at increased risk for polio are also eligible for a free vaccine. Learn more about who should get the polio vaccine.

Get immunized against polio by making an appointment with your doctor, pharmacist (for those 5 years and older) or Public Health. If you are travelling to a country where the polio virus is circulating, talk to your doctor or visit a travel clinic about getting vaccinated.

Learn where to get immunized and how to book an appointment