Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for:
Sudden weakness or inability to move an arm or leg
Difficulty breathing, choking, or being unable to swallow
A weak cough, bluish lips, confusion, or unusual drowsiness
Rapidly worsening weakness, especially after fever or muscle pain
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Severe headache with fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, or light sensitivity also needs urgent medical assessment.
Prompt medical advice is appropriate after possible poliovirus exposure, particularly if vaccination is incomplete or recent travel involved an area with known circulation.
Do not wait for paralysis to appear before reporting a significant exposure.
Sudden changes are not routine and need urgent assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine follow-up for long-standing weakness, increasing fatigue, repeated falls, new pain, reduced mobility, or gradual changes in breathing or swallowing.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Polio. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.