What should you know about polio virus prevention?

Poliovirus commonly spreads when tiny amounts of stool reach another person’s mouth, including through unwashed hands, contaminated surfaces, food, or water. Someone without symptoms may still pass it on. Vaccination prepares the immune system to recognise the virus and reduces the chance of serious disease and onward spread. Hygiene supports protection but cannot replace vaccination. Advice may be tailored for children, travellers, people with incomplete records, or households affected by an outbreak.

Keep a record of each person’s recommended immunisations and ask a clinic about missed or uncertain doses. Wash hands with soap after using the toilet, changing nappies, or helping someone in the bathroom, and before eating or preparing food. Choose safe drinking water and handle food hygienically. Follow local health alerts, and tell a clinician about relevant travel or contact if illness develops.

Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, choking, inability to swallow, or sudden weakness. Arrange prompt assessment for fever with an unsteady walk, weakness in a limb, severe neck or back stiffness, or loss of normal reflexes. Until advice is received, limit close contact while unwell and be especially careful with hand hygiene around infants and people with weakened immunity.

Which polio vaccinations are due for my child or me? Is a catch-up plan needed? Does upcoming travel change the advice? What should our household do if someone develops weakness or swallowing trouble?