The end of polio

Polio is caused by poliovirus, which can spread through contaminated hands, food or water. Many infections cause no obvious symptoms, while some cause fever, sore throat, stomach symptoms or muscle weakness. Rarely, weakness can become severe and affect breathing.

The end of polio means stopping ongoing transmission in every community, not simply seeing fewer diagnosed cases. Because infection may be unnoticed, vaccination and public-health monitoring remain necessary even when the disease seems distant.

Check that children and eligible adults are up to date with recommended immunisations, especially before travel or when moving between countries. Keep vaccination records available and ask a healthcare professional which doses are due. Routine childhood immunisation protects the individual and reduces opportunities for the virus to circulate.

Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food. If a local health authority announces an immunisation campaign or exposure response, follow its instructions even if previous doses were given.

Contact a clinician promptly after possible exposure or travel to an area with polio transmission, particularly if fever or weakness develops. Seek emergency help for sudden or worsening muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems. Do not wait for paralysis before seeking advice.

Ask whether the vaccination record is complete, whether an additional dose is advised for travel, what symptoms should be reported, and which public-health service to contact after a possible exposure.