The CDC warns travellers to update polio vaccines and practice strict hygiene as cases surface in popular destinations, from Europe to Africa. (Image by CDC.)
Your passport might not be the only thing that needs updating before your next holiday. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 global travel alert for polio—a disease most travellers stopped thinking about decades ago.
However, recent flare-ups around the world mean that even fully vaccinated adults may need a one-time booster to stay protected and avoid last-minute border hassles. Here’s what this means for your travel plans, how real the risk is, and what to do before your departure.
Where polio has been popping up
Recent detections have occurred in Finland, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Kenya. While many cases are tied to regions with lower vaccination rates, international travel means viruses move quickly, and that’s the concern. A full list of locations where polio has been detected can be found here.
Polio symptoms to watch for
Most infected people never show symptoms, which is why it spreads quietly. But when symptoms appear, they can include fever, tiredness, nausea, headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, or stiffness in the neck and back. Some experience aches in their arms and legs.
While uncommon, polio can take a dangerous turn. The virus can cause permanent loss of muscle function, and in severe cases, it can be fatal, especially if it paralyses the muscles needed for breathing or leads to a brain infection.
More than just a shot
A vaccine is your strongest shield, but the CDC says there’s more you can do:
- Wash hands frequently with clean water.
- Avoid drinking water that may be contaminated.
- Follow safe food and beverage practices abroad.
