Polio is a viral infection that mainly affects children under 5. It spreads through stool and contaminated water or food. Most infected children have no symptoms or a mild illness, but in some the virus attacks the nerves and causes sudden, lifelong paralysis, usually of the legs. Afghanistan is one of the last countries where polio still circulates, so every child needs every dose of polio vaccine.
Symptoms
Most children have no symptoms
Fever, tiredness, headache and sore throat
Vomiting
Neck and back stiffness
Sudden weakness or floppiness of one or both legs or arms
The child cannot stand or walk normally
Causes
Poliovirus
Swallowing the virus from stool-contaminated water, food or hands
Poor sanitation
Children who have missed polio vaccine doses
Prevention
Give polio drops and injections in the routine vaccine schedule
Give polio drops in every vaccination campaign, even if the child was vaccinated before
Wash hands with soap and use latrines
Drink safe water
Treatment
There is no cure for polio once paralysis happens
Rest and care in hospital during the early illness
Physiotherapy and exercises to keep muscles as strong as possible
Braces, crutches or other aids for walking
Report any child with sudden leg or arm weakness to a health worker so the area can be checked
Common questions
Why does my child need polio drops in every campaign?
Each dose adds more protection. In places where polio still spreads, extra doses make sure every child is fully protected. The drops are safe to give many times.
Is the polio vaccine safe?
Yes. Polio vaccines are safe and have been given to billions of children around the world. They are free in Afghanistan.
