The National Polio Reference Laboratory should be contacted. Reservoir Humans only. There are no long-term carriers. Mode of Transmission Transmission is by direct contact through close association. Faecal-oral route is especially important where sanitation is poor.
Pharyngeal spread is more important where there is good sanitation and during epidemics.
The risk of transmission of infection is greatest for the seven to 10 days prior to and following the onset of symptoms. The virus persists in the pharynx for approximately one week and in the faeces for up to six weeks, or longer in the immunosuppressed. Isolate patient with Standard Precautions in hospital. Exclude from schools and children's settings until at least 14 days after onset of illness and until receipt of a medical certificate of recovery from infection. Disinfect throat discharges, faeces and soiled articles.