What should you know about mode of transmission of poliovirus?

An infected person can shed poliovirus in stool, including when they have few or no noticeable symptoms. Poor handwashing after using the toilet or changing a nappy can move the virus to food, drinks, toys, and household surfaces. Close contact with respiratory secretions can also contribute to spread. The virus enters through the mouth and multiplies in the intestine before it may affect the nervous system.

Most infected people do not develop paralysis, but weakness, breathing difficulty, or loss of movement requires urgent assessment. A person’s vaccination history helps clinicians judge protection and next steps.

Wash hands carefully with soap and water after using the toilet, changing nappies, or helping a child in the bathroom, and before preparing food. Keep drinking water and food protected from sewage contamination. Follow the recommended childhood immunisation schedule and keep records available when travelling or moving between countries. Ask a clinician to review missed doses rather than restarting or changing the schedule yourself.

Seek urgent medical care for sudden limb weakness, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing, neck stiffness, or breathing problems, particularly after possible exposure or travel to an area with poliovirus transmission. Contact a healthcare professional after a suspected case in the household so contacts and immunisation needs can be assessed promptly.

Ask whether your child’s immunisations are up to date, whether a catch-up dose is needed, and whether travel changes the plan. If there has been a suspected exposure, ask what symptoms to watch for and whether household contacts require assessment.