What should you know about the three types of polio?

Asymptomatic infection causes no noticeable illness, although the virus can still spread. Non-paralytic polio may cause fever, tiredness, headache, nausea, sore throat or stiffness without the muscle weakness of paralysis. Paralytic polio affects the nervous system and can cause sudden weakness, often in an arm or leg, and may affect breathing muscles. Early symptoms can overlap with other infections, so the type cannot be identified from one symptom alone. Polio is prevented through vaccination rather than treated with a medicine that removes the virus.

Seek medical advice promptly after possible exposure or travel-related risk, particularly if fever is followed by neck or back stiffness, unusual weakness, or difficulty swallowing. Avoid close contact while an infectious illness is being assessed, wash hands carefully, and follow local public-health advice. Check that childhood immunisation records are complete; a clinician can advise on catch-up doses or travel vaccination when needed.

Get emergency help for sudden weakness, inability to move a limb, trouble breathing, choking, or rapidly worsening swallowing difficulty. Urgent assessment is also needed for a severe headache with neck stiffness or marked drowsiness. Do not wait for paralysis to appear after a concerning exposure or neurological change.

Ask whether your symptoms require testing, which contacts should be informed, whether your immunisation record is complete, and whether travel changes your vaccination advice.