Raise Your Helping Hand
We need your help to educate everyone about polio and post-polio syndrome
Polio Survivors Network provides an information service including regular newsletters for polio survivors, their families, friends and health professionals.
Polio survivors are those who, after years of stable functioning following recovery from polio (poliomyelitis, infantile paralysis), are experiencing new deterioration. In most cases these problems have been gradual and, whilst medically noted, most often are not diagnosed correctly over many years.
Polio Survivors Network collects, collates and provides polio and post-polio related material from all over the world. This includes, but is not limited to, infantile paralysis, polio, poliomyelitis, post-polio sequelae, post-polio syndrome, post-poliomyelitis syndrome and the late effects of polio. The most common term is post-polio syndrome (PPS).
I am a:
Polio Survivor
The journey of a polio survivor takes unexpected turns, revealing a lesser-known phase beyond initial recovery – a revelation that may evoke both surprise and relief. This was the case for one survivor who, after years of stable health, discovered the existence of a subsequent stage characterised by unexplained symptoms: fresh weaknesses, heightened fatigue and functional regressions previously unaccounted for.
Health Professional
For health professionals, the significance of understanding the later stage of polio cannot be overstated. Individuals who once battled polio and are now grappling with new symptoms need assessment from practitioners well-versed in the complexities of the original infection, recovery levels and post-polio effects.
Regrettably, post-polio syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion as there are no definitive tests.
Family Member
Family members face their own set of challenges. As a caregiver, friend, or relative of a polio survivor, you may observe them transitioning from a period of stability to encountering fresh obstacles like pain, fatigue, muscle weakness and difficulties with daily tasks. Understanding a little more about post-polio can often help in offering a sense of understanding and empowerment.
We are here for you too.
Latest News
- Newsletter OUT NOWOur latest edition of Post Polio Matters (edition 127) is out now and should be landing in your email inbox… Read more: Newsletter OUT NOW
- Hilary BoonePolio Survivors Network are very sad to announce that our founder and tireless advocate, Hilary Boone, passed away on 15… Read more: Hilary Boone
- Royal College of General Practioners (RCGP)The RCGP and British Polio Fellowship have produced some useful e-learning to raise awareness of post-polio syndrome, with a particular… Read more: Royal College of General Practioners (RCGP)
Become a Member
For us, this illness causes significant problems and one way of coping with it is to have the facility
to exchange details of our problems and coping strategies with other people who are similarly affected.
