Travel Vaccination

Polio Vaccine (Booster)

A single booster dose for travellers heading to regions where polio still circulates.

What is polio, and where is it still a risk?

Polio is a viral infection spread mainly through contaminated water or food and through close contact with an infected person. Most infections are mild, but a small proportion of cases can lead to paralysis.

Routine childhood vaccination has eliminated polio from most of the world, but transmission continues in a small number of regions, and international travel is one of the main ways the virus can move between countries. A booster is recommended for travellers heading to affected areas.

Who should top up their protection?

Travellers to countries with ongoing transmission

Where polio cases continue to be reported.

Anyone overdue a booster

It's been ten years or more since your last polio-containing vaccine.

Long-stay travellers and volunteers

Spending extended periods in an affected region.

Those transiting through affected regions

Even a longer layover can be relevant depending on your route.

The booster at a glance

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Single Dose

One injection renews your existing protection.

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Often Combined

Usually given together with diphtheria and tetanus.

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Long-Lasting Cover

Protection typically lasts around ten years.

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Quick to Arrange

Fits easily into a routine travel health appointment.

Topping up your protection: what to expect

1. Book a pre-travel consultation

We'll review your vaccination history and itinerary together.

2. Check your vaccination history

If you're unsure when you were last vaccinated, we'll help work it out.

3. Receive your booster

A quick injection, usually combined with diphtheria and tetanus.

4. Travel with confidence

One dose is generally all that's needed to renew your protection.

Questions about the polio vaccine

Do I need this if I was fully vaccinated as a child?

Immunity can fade over time, so a booster is recommended for travel to affected regions, particularly if it's been ten years or more since your last dose.

Is it combined with other vaccines?

Usually yes, it's typically combined with diphtheria and tetanus in a single injection.

Which countries currently have polio transmission?

This changes over time, so we'll check the latest guidance against your specific itinerary during your consultation.

Are there any side effects?

Mild soreness at the injection site is the most common reaction.

Ready to top up your protection?

Book a booster appointment in a couple of minutes.