Get the Polio Vaccine for Travel at Cheltenham Travel Clinic

Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Polio Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Polio

Poliomyelitis (polio) is a disease of the central nervous system with potential to cause a paralysis. The virus is transmitted through food or water contaminated by infected human faeces or by direct contact with an infectious person.

Cases of polio still occur in some African and Asian countries.

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Vaccination Pricing

£39 Per dose
£39 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Most individuals (about 95 percent) who acquire polio do not develop symptoms. When they do occur symptoms may range from a mild illness with fever, to symptoms of meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) or paralysis.

Fever and fatigue
Headache
Nausea or vomiting and stomach pain
Muscle weakness or tenderness
Stiffness in the neck or back
Tingling or numbness in limbs

James Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 522 880

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

19 St Georges Road, Cheltenham GL50 3DT

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Wymans Brook Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 221 988

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Unit 1, Windyridge Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4RA

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The Vaccination

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Time before travel	Boost required at
6 – 85	1	–	Up to day before*	10 years

*Vaccine most effective when given enough time to become active. Some immunity will be provided for your travels if it’s given up to the day before travel.

What is Polio?

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects young children but can strike individuals of any age. In most cases, polio causes no symptoms or only mild illness. However, in a small percentage of cases, the virus invades the nervous system and can cause permanent paralysis, particularly of the legs. In the most severe instances, it can affect the muscles used for breathing and lead to death. Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, polio has been eradicated in most parts of the world, but it remains a public health concern in a handful of countries.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

Polio spreads through person-to-person contact, primarily via the faecal-oral route. This means the virus is shed in the faeces of infected individuals and can contaminate water, food, or surfaces. In areas with poor sanitation, the risk of transmission is much higher. The poliovirus can also spread via droplets from coughs or sneezes, although this is less common. The most effective prevention is vaccination. In the UK, the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. Booster doses are also recommended for adults travelling to high-risk countries.

What are the symptoms of polio?

Polio symptoms vary by severity. Around 70% of infected individuals have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may begin with flu-like signs such as fever, sore throat, tiredness, nausea, and abdominal pain. In fewer than 1% of cases, the virus progresses to the central nervous system, causing meningitis, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Paralysis can be permanent, and in some cases, muscles involved in breathing or swallowing are affected, posing a risk of death. Long-term complications can include post-polio syndrome, a condition that affects polio survivors years later with fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain.

How long does the vaccine last?

The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) given in childhood offers long-lasting protection. After completing the primary schedule and receiving a booster, immunity is typically lifelong. However, for those travelling to countries where polio is still present or resurging, a booster dose is recommended if the last dose was given more than 10 years ago.

Countries I need the vaccine for

The polio vaccine is strongly recommended for travel to countries where the disease is still endemic or where outbreaks have occurred. This includes Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Some countries require proof of recent polio vaccination for entry or exit, particularly if arriving from a high-risk area.

Side effects of vaccination

Side effects are usually mild and include temporary soreness at the injection site or a slight fever. Serious reactions are very rare. The benefits of preventing such a debilitating illness far outweigh any temporary discomfort.

We’re here to ensure you’re protected. Book your polio booster with us today for fast and reliable vaccination support.