How does polio spread?
Polio spreads through coughing or sneezing or from coming in contact with poop (feces) of an infected person (fecal-oral route). It can spread by:
Not washing your hands after going to the bathroom or touching poop (like changing diapers).
Drinking contaminated water or getting it in your mouth.
Eating foods that have touched contaminated water.
Swimming in contaminated water. Water can become contaminated when someone who has diarrhea swims in it.
Coughing or sneezing.
Being in close contact with someone with polio.
Touching contaminated surfaces.
Is polio contagious?
Yes, polio is highly contagious. It spreads easily from person to person.
