This spring the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) updated its recommendations for polio vaccination for international travel. If you have employees who travel for business, it is important to be aware that Germany, Poland and the United Kingdom have been added to the current Level 2 advisory, reflecting detection of circulating polio virus in these countries during the preceding 13 months. Polio is a highly contagious disease with no available treatment beyond supportive care. Severe cases can result in paralysis.
Adults previously vaccinated against polio should consider getting a single dose of inactivated polio vaccine prior to traveling to the countries on the CDC list: Global Polio - Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions - Travel Health Notices | Travelers' Health | CDC
Adults and children who have not been immunized previously should complete a three-dose series prior to traveling to these areas. An accelerated dosing schedule is possible for those who are traveling soon. Polio vaccine is generally available in primary care clinics but is also available through the Froedtert & MCW Travel Clinic.
