Polio
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.