Polio is a viral disease: what that means

A viral disease is caused by a virus rather than a bacterium. Poliovirus can multiply in the body and spread between people, often when tiny amounts of contaminated stool reach the mouth. Infection may cause no symptoms, or it may cause fever, tiredness, headache, sore throat, nausea or stomach upset. In some cases, the virus affects nerve cells that control muscles. This can produce weakness, reduced movement, difficulty swallowing or breathing. Antibiotics do not treat viruses, so prevention and timely assessment are central to managing the risk.

Use careful handwashing after toilet use or nappy changes, keep food preparation areas clean, and avoid sharing items that may be contaminated. Check that children and adults in the household have appropriate immunisation records. If records are incomplete, a healthcare provider can advise on the next dose or catch-up plan. For schedule information, see [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Get urgent medical help if a person develops sudden weakness, cannot move a limb normally, has trouble swallowing, develops a weak cough, or finds breathing difficult. These signs may indicate nervous-system involvement and should not be managed at home while waiting for symptoms to settle. Fever or stomach upset without weakness still deserves medical advice when severe or persistent.

Ask whether the symptoms fit a viral illness, whether testing or public-health notification is needed, and how to reduce spread to household contacts. Ask for a clear immunisation review and instructions for recognising neurological changes.