Doctor issues important message about 'very contagious' polio as virus found in London

The NHS notes that polio spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Dr Harriss explained that polio is “very contagious”. ”It’s one of the most contagious viruses,” he noted.

He added that it could be spread through sneezing and hands.

“But generally if you’re living in close proximity to someone who has the virus and you’re not protected, it’s very likely you’ll also catch the virus,” the doctor added.