What should you know about new polio?

Poliovirus spreads mainly through contact with infected faecal matter and can enter the body through the mouth. Many infections cause no obvious symptoms, while others cause fever, tiredness, headache, nausea, stomach upset or sore throat. A small number of infections affect the brain or spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, difficulty moving, or problems with breathing and swallowing. The illness can affect children and adults who are not adequately protected.

Check whether you and your children are up to date with recommended polio vaccination, especially after travel or contact with a suspected case. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, use safe water, and follow public-health instructions about testing or contact precautions. If fever, weakness or other symptoms develop after possible exposure, arrange medical advice promptly and mention the exposure and travel history.

Seek urgent medical help for new weakness in an arm or leg, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing, changes in breathing, severe drowsiness or a stiff neck. These signs need prompt assessment because neurological illness can progress quickly. A child with fever and unusual floppiness, reduced movement or difficulty feeding should be assessed urgently.

Ask whether vaccination records show complete protection, whether symptoms could fit poliovirus or another infection, and which precautions your household should follow while assessment is arranged.