Polio
A viral infection that can cause permanent paralysis in young children.
Reviewed by TinyDose editorial team
Polio is caused by a virus that spreads through contaminated food and water. Most infections cause no symptoms, but in a small number of children the virus attacks the nervous system and causes lifelong paralysis. Decades of sustained vaccination have brought the world close to eradicating polio entirely.
Symptoms
- Fever, sore throat and tiredness
- Headache and vomiting
- Stiffness in the neck and back
- Sudden weakness or floppiness in the limbs, a sign of the serious form
How it spreads
Spread through the faecal-oral route, contaminated water, food or contact with an infected person.
Why it's serious
Over 95% of polio infections cause no or only mild symptoms. However, the small percentage that leads to paralysis is permanent. Vaccination is the only protection.
- Permanent paralysis, most often in the legs
- Breathing difficulty if the chest muscles are affected
- Post-polio syndrome, fatigue and weakness that can appear decades later
Most at risk: Children under 5 are most vulnerable. Unvaccinated individuals of any age are at risk in areas where polio circulates.
How to prevent Polio
Vaccination is the most effective protection. Polio is prevented by:
Treatment
There is no cure for paralytic polio. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, supporting breathing if needed, and rehabilitation. Vaccination is the only way to prevent it.
Common questions
Sources
- Polio vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2016.
- India Polio Eradication · Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India, 2024.
Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.
Protect your child against Polio, TinyDose reminds you when each vaccine is due.
Free on iOS and Android.
This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.
© 2026 Alpstack · TinyDose