Polio booster

The polio virus has recently been discovered in wastewater in London and there are some signs that the virus may be spreading.

If children don't receive their routine vaccinations in a timely manner, the risk of polio increases.

Polio is highly infectious and the virus can attack the nervous system, causing permanent paralysis of the muscles. This is rare, but unvaccinated people are at greater risk.

In order to try and reduce the risk of the virus spreading, the NHS in London is advising all London children aged 1 to 11-years-old get a booster dose of a polio-containing vaccine (already included as part of the NHS vaccinations schedule).

NHS recommendations for parents

Check your child's red book or ask your GP practice to find out if your child is up-to-date with all their vaccinations.
If your child is not up-to-date, please book an appointment at your GP practice to make sure your child has maximum protection against serious diseases.