Polio

Overview

Most infections cause no symptoms; a small number cause weakness or paralysis.

Polio is a virus that can cause weakness.

It's rare in the U.S. because of vaccines.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sudden weakness in a limb

Less common

• Fever
• Neck stiffness
• Muscle weakness years later

When to get medical care

Causes

Poliovirus.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: germs from poop getting into the mouth.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

• Unvaccinated

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Stool or throat test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Make sure vaccines are up to date
• Rest

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

• Polio vaccine

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, for hard-to-treat infections.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until 2 days after vomiting and diarrhea stop, especially if you work with food, children, or patients.
• Wash hands well after using the toilet.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Unvaccinated travelers: Higher risk abroad.
• Children: Need all doses.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Vaccination prevents it.

Most infections cause no lasting harm.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Polio