Poliomyelitis Information
Poliomyelitis (polio) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the poliovirus that spreads through contaminated
food, water, or contact with an infected person. Most cases are asymptomatic, but severe infections can cause
paralysis or death, primarily affecting young children. Australia was declared polio-free by the World Health
Organisation in 2000, but the virus remains in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Vaccination is crucial to prevent
infection, especially for travellers to affected regions.
The poliomyelitis vaccination is available on its own or as a combination vaccination. The combination vaccination
also helps
to protect against whooping cough (pertussis), diphtheria and tetanus. Your pharmacist will be able to provide
advice as to which vaccine is suitable for you.
Who is recommended to receive a Poliomyelitis vaccination?
- Routine vaccination of infants and children
- Adults who are traveling to polio-endemic areas (Afghanistan and Pakistan)
- Healthcare workers or those in close contact with patients at risk of infection
- Laboratory workers who may have contact with poliovirus
- People who have not completed their polio vaccination course
Who is eligible for a free Poliomyelitis vaccination?
The Australian Government's National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides a free Polio vaccines to the following
eligible Medicare card holders:
- Children at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 4 years (not available in pharmacy)
- People aged 20 years and under who have never received poliomyelitis vaccination
- Refugees and other humanitarian entrants of any age if they did not receive polio vaccination in childhood
Please note, NIP vaccines can be limited, and not all pharmacies or pharmacist immunisers will have access to
these free vaccines at the time of your appointment. If you believe you may be eligible for a free vaccine,
it is recommended that you speak with your pharmacist prior to making your appointment to confirm availability
of the free vaccine.
If you do not meet the NIP eligibility, or the pharmacy does not have the free vaccines available at the
pharmacy, they will discuss your options with you.
For more information on Poliomyelitis please click here.