What should you know about polio virus transmission?

An infected person can pass on the virus even without feeling ill. The virus multiplies in the intestine and leaves the body in stool. Poor sanitation, unsafe water and unwashed hands make person-to-person spread easier.

Close household contact can create exposure through shared bathrooms, caregiving or objects contaminated after toileting. Respiratory secretions may contribute in close contact, but the faecal-oral route is the central route to understand. A person cannot identify infection from appearance alone.

Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing nappies and before preparing or eating food. Use safe drinking water, clean food carefully, and keep bathroom surfaces clean. Follow local public-health advice if a suspected or confirmed case is identified.

Check that children and adults in the household are up to date with recommended vaccination. If exposure may have occurred, contact a healthcare professional or public-health service promptly; they can advise about testing, monitoring and vaccination based on the situation.

Seek prompt medical advice after known contact with polio, unexpected weakness, difficulty walking, trouble swallowing, or breathing problems. Emergency help is needed for rapidly worsening weakness or breathing difficulty. Keep anyone with suspected infection away from food preparation until professional advice is given.

Ask what counts as a meaningful exposure, whether household members need assessment, and which hygiene and vaccination steps apply to your circumstances.