What should you know about control of polio?

Polio is an infection caused by poliovirus. It can spread when microscopic contamination from stool reaches the mouth, especially where sanitation or hand hygiene is limited. Some infections cause no obvious symptoms, while others cause fever, sore throat, headache, nausea or limb weakness. New weakness, difficulty walking or breathing needs urgent assessment and should not be managed by waiting at home.

Immunisation trains the immune system to recognise poliovirus and is the main way to protect individuals and communities. Protection depends on receiving the recommended doses for age and circumstances. Childhood immunisation records can help a clinician identify missed or uncertain doses.

Check that children and adults who may travel or face exposure have up-to-date immunisation advice. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet or changing nappies and before preparing food. Use safe sanitation and follow instructions from health authorities during an outbreak or after a possible exposure. Do not share personal items when someone is unwell.

Seek urgent care for sudden or progressive weakness, a floppy limb, trouble swallowing, difficulty breathing, severe headache with neck stiffness, or unusual drowsiness. Contact a clinician promptly after possible exposure, especially if fever or weakness appears, and mention travel, immunisation history and timing of symptoms. Public-health teams may need to advise on testing and contacts.

Ask whether your immunisation record is complete, whether travel changes the recommendation, and what symptoms should trigger urgent assessment for you or your child.