An investigation is ongoing to safeguard the public from a recent polio detection in sewage samples in the UK – here is how you can find out if you have had the polio vaccine.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and has found the polio virus in sewage samples collected from the London Beckton Sewage Treatment Works.

According to the UKHSA, it is normal for one to three ‘vaccine-like’ polioviruses to be detected each year in the UK as part of routine observation, however, these were always one-off findings that were not detected again.

Investigations have begun following the discovery of several closely-related viruses in sewage samples which were taken between February and May. The virus has gradually developed 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 have not been fully vaccinated.

A vaccine is prepared. (Pic credit: Finnbarr Webster / Getty Images)

The virus has only been found in sewage samples and no linked cases of paralysis have been reported, but investigations will reveal if any community transmission is taking place.

According to UKHSA, the last case of wild polio contracted in the UK was confirmed in 1984 and the country was declared polio-free in 2003.

Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, Dr Vanessa Saliba, said: “Vaccine-derived poliovirus is rare and the risk to the public overall is extremely low. 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.

Polio virus UK: How do I find out if I have had the polio vaccine? How can parents find out their child’s polio vaccination status?