Polio vaccination: clear, practical info for families in Africa

Polio can paralyse a child in hours, but vaccines stopped most cases worldwide. Since mass vaccination began, polio cases dropped by about 99%. That’s the good news. The practical question is: what should you and your family actually do? This page gives simple, useful steps you can take right now.

Which vaccines and who should get them

There are two main polio vaccines: the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) given by injection, and the oral polio vaccine (OPV) given as drops. Most routine childhood schedules start with OPV or IPV in the first months of life, followed by additional doses. Babies and young children need all recommended doses to be fully protected. Adults who never had a full course should get vaccinated, especially if they travel to areas with recent outbreaks.

When and where to get vaccinated

Follow your country’s child immunisation schedule. Clinics, public health centres and many hospitals run routine vaccinations. During outbreaks, health authorities also run door‑to‑door campaigns offering extra doses free of charge. If you’re unsure about dates or locations, call your local health office or community clinic. Keep your child’s immunisation card and bring it every time.

Travel plans? If you or a family member will visit a place with current polio activity, talk to your clinic about a booster before travel. Some countries may require a vaccination certificate for entry or exit during outbreaks.

Worried about side effects? Most people have no major problems. Common reactions are mild: a sore arm after IPV or brief low fever. Serious reactions are rare. If your child had a severe allergic reaction to a previous polio vaccine dose, tell your health worker before the next dose.

What about myths? You’ll hear things online. Vaccines do not cause infertility, do not change DNA, and do not contain harmful ingredients. Vaccination protects children and communities. If you hear a claim that sounds scary, ask your nurse or doctor for the facts.

How communities fight outbreaks: When a case appears, health teams act fast. They track contacts, run mass vaccination campaigns, and step up surveillance. You can help by checking that your family’s vaccinations are up to date and by taking part in local vaccination days.

If you see a sudden limp, high fever, or unexplained weakness in a child, call your clinic or hospital right away. Early reporting helps stop spread and brings fast medical help.

Final simple steps: check your child’s immunisation card, visit the clinic if a dose is missing, join community vaccination drives, and ask health workers any questions you have. Vaccination is the easiest way to keep kids safe from polio.