Polio vaccine - what you need to know: when to get help
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 immediately for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, severe dizziness, collapse, or difficulty waking.
These symptoms usually begin soon after vaccination but can occur after you leave the clinic.
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
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your healthcare team during routine hours if:
Injection-site pain, redness, or swelling is worsening rather than improving
A fever persists or you feel increasingly unwell
You think you received the wrong vaccine or dose
You need help arranging the next dose
You had an unexpected reaction that concerns you
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Polio vaccine - what you need to know. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.