Polio Travel Alert: Countries With Poliovirus in 2026

International travel can expose people to health risks that are uncommon at home, and polio remains one of them. Some destinations continue to report circulating poliovirus, which means travelers should review their vaccination status well before departure. Even if you completed childhood immunizations, it is important to confirm that your records are current and that you meet any destination-specific guidance before crossing borders.

As of September 27, 2026, countries and territories identified in connection with circulating poliovirus include Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Angola, Ethiopia, Republic of South Sudan, Djibouti, Germany, the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Central African Republic, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Laos, Namibia, Mali, Malawi, Zambia, Togo, Israel, and the West Bank and Gaza. Because public health conditions can change, travelers should always check official travel health notices shortly before leaving.

Why polio vaccination matters before travel

Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by poliovirus. While many infections cause no obvious symptoms, the virus can spread silently and, in some cases, lead to permanent paralysis. That makes prevention especially important for travelers visiting affected areas, staying for extended periods, or working in settings with close community contact.

Vaccination is the most effective protection. Children should complete the recommended routine polio vaccine series on schedule. Adults who are unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated should speak with a healthcare provider about completing the series, and adults who previously completed routine vaccination may be advised to receive a one-time booster dose before travel to certain destinations.

How to prepare before you go

Start planning early, ideally several weeks before departure. This allows time to locate immunization records, schedule appointments, and receive any recommended doses. If you are traveling for work, study, humanitarian activity, or long stays, you may also need documentation of polio vaccination for entry or exit requirements in some locations.

• Review your vaccine history and confirm whether you completed the full polio series.
• Book a travel health visit if your records are missing, incomplete, or unclear.
• Ask whether you need a one-time adult polio booster based on your itinerary.
• Carry vaccination documentation with your passport and other travel papers.
• Check for updated country requirements close to your departure date.

Travelers should also follow routine hygiene precautions. Wash hands regularly, drink safe water, and be careful with food in settings where sanitation may be limited. These steps do not replace vaccination, but they support overall protection during international travel.

Families traveling with children should be especially careful to avoid last-minute planning. Pediatric vaccine schedules can require multiple doses over time, so an early appointment helps ensure children are protected before departure. If travel is urgent, a clinician may recommend an accelerated schedule depending on age and timing.

Polio is now rare in many parts of the world, which can create a false sense of security. However, international movement means outbreaks and virus circulation remain a concern beyond traditionally affected regions. Checking your vaccine status is a simple step that protects you, your family, and the communities you visit and return to.