Polio
- Polio is a highly contagious disease that can cause paralysis and death.
- The best way to protect yourself from polio is to get immunised.
Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a viral infection that that can affect the nervous system, including the spinal cord or brain stem.
Most people who are infected experience mild illness or no symptoms at all. In rare cases, polio can cause severe disease with lasting complications.
Australia was declared polio-free in 2000 however Polio still exists in some countries which is why maintaining high vaccination coverage remains important.
Cause of polio
Polio is caused by the poliovirus. This is spread through saliva and faeces (poo) from infected people.
Symptoms of polio
- Fever
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sore throat
- Pain or stiffness,
- Weak or tender muscles.
Polio complications
In its most severe form, polio can lead to a person being unable to move certain limbs, also called paralysis. It can also lead to trouble breathing and sometimes death.
Polio can cause lasting complications such as paralytic polio and can be fatal. People who have survived polio may have post-polio syndrome. This is when muscle weakness and pain returns many years after the original infection.
Polio immunisation
The polio vaccine is recommended for:
- children
- infants
- booster vaccination in adults who are at higher risk of polio exposure, such as healthcare workers and laboratory workers who may have contact with polio cases, and travellers to areas or countries where polio is epidemic or endemic
- vaccination of adolescents and adults who have never received polio vaccine.
Learn more about polio immunisation, including timings:
How do you get the polio vaccine?
Australia uses safe and effective polio vaccines which do not contain live virus and are administered by injection.
Polio vaccines are available from your GP or usual vaccination provider.
How often do you need the polio vaccine?
Polio combination vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for infants children, and is recommended in a 4-dose schedule at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months and 4 years.
Eligible people who missed their recommended National Immunisation Program vaccinations in childhood can still get them for free until they are 20 years old. Refugees and other humanitarian entrants of any age can also get a National Immunisation Program vaccines for fee if they did not receive them in childhood. More information about catch-up vaccinations can be found on Getting vaccinated | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
Where do you get the polio vaccine?
You can book a polio vaccine appointment at a range of health services in WA. It's a good idea to check your or your child's immunisation history before you book an appointment. In Western Australia, the National Immunisation Program vaccines are available through:
- general practices (GP or doctor)
- local council immunisation clinics (available in some states and territories)
- community health centres
- aboriginal Medical Services
- pharmacies
- schools (for adolescents).
Last reviewed: 01-05-2026
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.