Brits are being advised to check their polio vaccinations are up to date as traces of the virus were discovered in London sewage. An investigation is underway to protect the public as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has declared a national incident. The NHS has revealed the main symptoms for people to watch out for.
Several closely-related viruses were found in sewage samples collected from the London Beckton Sewage Treatment Works taken between February and May. The virus has continued to evolve and is now classified as a ‘vaccine-derived’ poliovirus type 2 (VDPV2), which on rare occasions can cause serious illness, such as paralysis, in people who are not fully vaccinated.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “Vaccine-derived poliovirus has the potential to spread, particularly in communities where vaccine uptake is lower. On rare occasions it can cause paralysis in people who are not fully vaccinated, so if you or your child are not up to date with your polio vaccinations it’s important you contact your GP to catch up or if unsure check your red book.”
