The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the United Kingdom, Germany, Finland, Poland, Spain, and other countries following the detection of poliovirus circulation. This highly contagious virus spreads through airborne droplets and fecal contamination, targeting the nervous system. While most infected individuals show no symptoms, severe cases can cause muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, paralysis, or even death if breathing muscles are affected. Globally, polio has been detected in 39 countries and territories over the past year, particularly in Africa and the Middle East. Global Outlook and Prevention EffortsWhile wild poliovirus has been eliminated from most developed nations, vaccine-derived strains can still appear in under-vaccinated populations.

Source: The Times August 12, 2025 12:54 UTC