Polio Reference Service: laboratory services
Guidance and contact information for using the Polio Reference Service (PRS).
About the Polio Reference Service
The UK is committed to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and has to conform to the poliovirus testing requirements set by the World Health organization (WHO) Global Action Plan in compliance with WHO polio surveillance requirements. As such, it is essential that the correct sample types be submitted from all cases of suspected poliomyelitis and any case of acute flaccid paralysis or myelitis. Further information can be found in the A-Z list of tests available, or by contacting the PRS.
Under Schedule 1 of the Health Protection (Notification) Regulations 2010, suspected cases of acute poliomyelitis are notifiable. In addition, from 6 April 2025, acute flaccid paralysis or acute flaccid myelitis (AFP or AFM) not explained by a non-infectious cause is also notifiable. Appropriate testing of AFP or AFM cases not explained by a non-infectious cause, to exclude polio as a causative agent, is an integral component of polio surveillance.
Services available
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Poliovirus detection
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AFP and AFM investigation
Guidance and forms
- Polio AFP and AFM surveillance: laboratory sample submission
- Polio: guidance, vaccination, data and analysis
- Acute flaccid paralysis syndrome
- Poliomyelitis: Indications for serological testing
- Virus Reference Department (VRD): user manual
Contact
Polio Reference Service
UKHSA
61 Colindale Avenue
London
NW9 5EQ
Email mailto:vrdqueries@ukhsa.gov.uk
Telephone: 0208 327 7887
UKHSA Colindale VRD: DX 6530006