What should you know about polio virus transmitted through?

After a person uses the toilet or a child has a nappy change, microscopic stool may remain on hands or nearby surfaces. If handwashing is missed, the virus can move to food, drinking water, utensils or the mouth. Shared bathrooms and close household care can therefore create opportunities for spread.

A person may transmit poliovirus without obvious illness. Respiratory secretions can have a role during very close contact, but contamination from stool is the key route for everyday prevention. Clean surroundings and safe sanitation reduce opportunities for the virus to move between people.

Use soap and water to clean hands after toileting, nappy changes and helping someone in the bathroom, and before touching food. Drink safe water and wash food as advised locally. Clean frequently touched bathroom surfaces, and avoid sharing items that may be contaminated.

Vaccination gives specific protection and should be checked against the recommended schedule. Following suspected exposure, contact a clinician or public-health team rather than trying to judge risk from symptoms alone.

Ask for prompt medical advice after known contact with a case or when sudden weakness, difficulty walking, swallowing trouble, or breathing difficulty develops. Call emergency services for rapidly worsening weakness or any breathing problem, since neurological involvement can progress quickly.

Ask how the exposure occurred, whether contacts need monitoring or testing, and whether vaccination should be updated now.