Polio is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water.It affects nerve endings causing paralysis and death.
Although practicing Food and Water Safety should be implemented by all travellers , its not enough alone without vaccination when the latter is needed .
Some travellers may not be aware that Polio virus transmission has not be eliminated in three countries : Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan. All travellers to these countries should have a Polio booster or ,if have not completed Polio vaccine series, a full vaccine series before departure.
For Polio Update and vaccine recommendation by the Public Health Agency of Canada click here.
Ask your travel doctor if you may need Polio vaccination before travel.