What pathogen causes polio?

Poliovirus is a virus that multiplies in the digestive tract after entering the body. It can leave the body in stool and spread when hygiene, sanitation, or water safety is poor. A person may shed virus without feeling ill, which is why symptoms alone cannot show whether transmission is occurring.

Most infections are mild or unnoticed. Some cause fever, tiredness, headache, nausea, or sore throat. In a small number of infections, the virus affects the brain or spinal cord and causes weakness or paralysis. A symptom such as weakness does not prove that poliovirus is responsible; examination and testing are needed.

Vaccination is the main specific protection against poliovirus. Have a clinician review vaccination records when doses are missing, uncertain, or needed for travel. Wash hands carefully after toilet use or changing nappies and before eating or preparing food. Use safe water and food-handling practices.

If infection is suspected, follow instructions from the healthcare and public-health teams. They may advise testing, temporary precautions, and vaccination checks for close contacts. There is no home treatment that clears the virus; care is based on the person's symptoms and breathing or movement needs.

Go to emergency care for new or worsening weakness, inability to walk, difficulty swallowing, a weak cough, or shortness of breath. These symptoms can progress and need prompt assessment of muscle and breathing function.

Seek same-day advice for fever with neck or back stiffness, unusual limb weakness, or known exposure to poliovirus. Mention recent travel, contact with a suspected case, and the person's vaccination history.

Ask whether symptoms need testing, whether close contacts need assessment, and whether vaccination records are complete. If travel is planned, ask how destination-specific advice affects the timing of polio vaccination.