Newton Place Pharmacy
Polio
Polio is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by a toxin produced by bacteria. Diphtheria spores can be found in soil throughout the world.
Where is Polio Found?
Polio has been largely eradicated in most parts of the world due to widespread vaccination. However, cases of wild poliovirus still occur in a small number of countries, particularly in parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan.
In addition, vaccine derived poliovirus outbreaks can occasionally occur in regions with low vaccination coverage, including parts of Africa and Asia. For this reason, vaccination may be recommended for travellers visiting certain destinations.
How can I protect myself from Polio?
Young adults in the UK are normally vaccinated at the age of 16, the vaccination lasts 10 years so often vaccination is not required until the age of 26. Mothers with children under 10 years old are often vaccinated with the Whooping cough vaccine which is combined with tetanus so may also be protected.
The disease is acquired when material containing spores, such as soil, contaminates a wound. The toxin released from the bacteria may then attack the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. Tetanus is not spread by person to person contact.
What not to do in prevalent countries:
Do not drink untreated water
Avoid poor sanitation and unhygienic conditions
Do not neglect routine vaccinations before travel
Common Symptoms of Polio
In rare cases, polio can lead to paralysis, which may become permanent.
Neck stiffness & Soreness
Ongoing
headache
Nausea or Vomiting
How polio is caught & Transferred
Polio is a viral disease caused by the poliovirus that spreads easily from person to person, primarily through contact with infected fecal matter.
While the polio vaccine has led to a dramatic reduction in cases worldwide, people with weakened immune systems remain at higher risk of contracting the disease. The virus can also be transmitted through coughing or sneezing, although this is less common. Polio has been a significant public health concern, causing paralysis and in severe cases, death. Eradication efforts are ongoing, and prevention through vaccination and good hygiene practices remains critical in the fight against polio.
Additional Information
Polio can affect people of any age who are not fully vaccinated and spreads more easily in areas with poor sanitation, often without obvious symptoms. For this reason, proof of vaccination or a recent booster may be required for travel to certain countries.
*Price subject to change
Book now for your vaccinations at Newton Place Pharmacy!
Come and visit us for some friendly advice, or give us a call on 01795 597509