Cases of polio, or poliomyelitis, have recently increased. There is no cure for polio, but it can be prevented with safe and effective vaccination. The CDC urges providers to offer polio vaccine to everyone who is not fully vaccinated as soon as possible.

Pediatric Guidance (2 months through 18 years of age)
CDC recommends that children get four doses of polio vaccine. Children should get one dose at each of the following ages: 

Children who have not started their polio vaccine series or who are delayed in getting all recommended doses should start as soon as possible or finish their series by following the recommended catch-up schedule. View the Polio catch-up guidance for children 4 months through 17 years of age here.

Adult Guidance (19 years of age and older)

Most adults in the United States were vaccinated as children. However, adults who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or are fully vaccinated but are at higher risk for contact with poliovirus should receive polio vaccination. Adults who are at increased risk of contact with poliovirus and who have previously completed the polio vaccination series (IPV or OPV) can receive one lifetime booster dose of IPV. Learn more about which unvaccinated adults could be at higher risk, such as international travelers, laboratory workers, and healthcare professionals.

CDC Continuing Education – Available Tuesday, 9/6

For more information about polio, treatment, and vaccination, the CDC’s continuing education Pink Book course is coming up on September 6. This is an on-demand video with no registration required.