The poliovirus spreads mainly through faecal-oral transmission, commonly via contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person’s faeces. Person-to-person transmission is a significant concern, emphasising the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices.
While polio once posed a global threat, successful vaccination campaigns have significantly reduced its incidence. Today, it is most prevalent in a few countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Preventing polio involves a multi-faceted approach. Improved sanitation, hygiene practices, and access to clean water play a vital role. There is no cure for polio, emphasising the importance of prevention. However, the cornerstone of prevention is vaccination.
The most effective tool in the fight against polio is vaccination. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is a safe and potent defense mechanism, typically administered in multiple doses as part of routine immunisation schedules. Timely and complete vaccination helps establish widespread immunity, protecting individuals and communities.
What are the recommendations for the polio vaccine?
Vaccination is recommended for:
- Children, with one dose at 2, 4 and 6 months and 4 years of age
- Unvaccinated adults, with 3 doses, 1 to 2 months apart
- Adults at high risk of polio such as travelling to countries with Polio, with one dose, every 10 years
Currently, pharmacists in NSW can administer polio to children 5 years and over. It is on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for:
- People aged 5 – 19 years for catch-up vaccination,
- Refugees and humanitarian entrants aged 5 years and over
Pharmacists in NSW can administer the polio vaccine for people aged 5 and over.Speak to our pharmacists to check if you are eligible for an polio vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
Reference: healthdirect.gov.au
