Poliomyelitis (Polio)
Information about poliomyelitis (polio) immunisation funded under the Immunise Australia Program.
Poliomyelitis (polio) is an acute illness following gastrointestinal (stomach and gut) infection by one of the 3 types of polioviruses. The virus spreads between people through contact with infected faeces and throat secretions. Polio can cause meningitis (brain infection) and paralysis. About 5% of people hospitalised with polio die from it, and about half of those who survive suffer permanent paralysis.
In 90 per cent of cases, the illness has no symptoms. If symptoms do occur they can take between 3 and 21 days after infection to show. Where symptoms do occur they can include:
- headache;
- nausea and vomiting;
- tiredness;
- neck and back stiffness;
- severe muscle pain; and
- paralysis.
Polio is a vaccine preventable disease. Polio vaccination is recommended as part of routine childhood immunisation. It is listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule and funded for children under the Immunise Australia Program. To receive polio immunisation, visit your local doctor or immunisation provider. It is important to note that the vaccine is provided at no cost, however a consultation fee may apply.
Doses of vaccine are given at 2, 4 and 6 months of age, with a booster dose at 4 years. Immunisation against polio is achieved using single-disease or combination vaccines. For information about immunisation in your area contact your State or Territory Health Department. For technical information or information about vaccines, refer to the polio section of the Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2008 (NHMRC).
Page last modified: 18 May, 2011