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What is polio?

Previous generations of Americans had reason to fear poliomyelitis, most often called polio. The disease is spread by a virus. It can cause paralysis. The disease is now rare in the U.S. because of a vaccine against the virus. But polio still exists in a few countries. People who have not been vaccinated can get it while traveling to a region where the disease still happens.

Polio can take several different forms:




What causes polio?

Polio is spread through the feces or mucus of people infected with the virus. In about 1 in 200 cases, people who have polio become paralyzed. The paralysis usually affects the legs, and it is permanent. Polio usually affects children under age 5. The disease is more common in the summer and fall.

Who is at risk for polio?

You are at increased risk for polio if you:

  • Have not received the polio vaccine

  • Were exposed to someone infected with the virus

What are the symptoms of polio?


  • Fever

  • Tiredness (fatigue)

  • Vomiting

  • Headache

  • Neck stiffness

  • Pain in the arms and legs

  • Weakness

  • Paralysis

  • Trouble breathing, swallowing, or speaking

How is polio diagnosed?

A healthcare provider may diagnose polio by checking your stool or throat for poliovirus. He or she may also want to do a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to get a sample of your spinal fluid to examine.

How is polio treated?

Polio can't be cured. Healthcare providers focus on treating symptoms. They may also prescribe medicine, including pain medicine, and suggest bed rest. Some people with polio can't breathe on their own will need a machine called a ventilator to help them breathe.

What are the possible complications of polio?

The complications of polio can vary.

  • Most people recover without problems.

  • Some people may develop muscle weakness.

  • A few people will have permanent muscle paralysis.

Living with polio


Can polio be prevented?

Being vaccinated against polio can protect you from the disease. Children should get a series of vaccines starting in infancy. If you're an adult going to a country where cases are still occurring, you may need to be vaccinated. Adults can have a 3-dose series of vaccines. This may be needed in people who haven't been fully vaccinated or don't know if they have been.


Key points about polio

  • Polio is rare in the U.S. but continues to occur in some countries.

  • It can be prevented with the polio vaccine.

  • If you are going to travel to a country where polio occurs, make sure you are properly vaccinated against it.

Next steps



  • Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.




  • Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.





Online Medical Reviewer: Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2018
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