What should you know about polio virus how spread?

After leaving the body in bowel movements, poliovirus can contaminate hands, nappies, toilets, water, food, and other surfaces. Swallowing the virus can start an infection. Close contact may also spread it through saliva or respiratory secretions, particularly when people share space for long periods. Because infected people may have no symptoms, transmission can happen without a clear source.

Spread is easier when handwashing, sanitation, or access to clean water is limited. The virus can then move through a household or community even though each person may remember a different possible exposure.

Wash hands thoroughly with soap after toileting or changing nappies and before eating or preparing food. Use safe water, clean bathroom surfaces, and avoid sharing food utensils with someone who may be infected. Vaccination provides specific protection and should be checked against the recommended schedule. See [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/) for more information.

Seek urgent medical review for weakness, difficulty walking, loss of movement, trouble swallowing, or a change in breathing after possible exposure. A person with breathing difficulty or choking needs emergency help. Fever with severe headache, neck stiffness, or unusual drowsiness should not be managed by waiting at home.

Ask whether the exposure warrants testing or public-health advice, whether close contacts need a vaccination review, and how long to use extra hygiene precautions. Describe the setting, timing, and any symptoms that followed.