What is the Polio Virus Antibodies 1, 2 & 3 test?

The Polio Virus Antibodies 1, 2 & 3 blood test measures neutralising antibodies against the three poliovirus serotypes. These antibodies indicate whether the immune system has protection, usually through vaccination or prior exposure.

Poliovirus exists in three distinct types, and immunity must be present against all three for full protection. Antibody testing helps determine immune status when vaccination history is unclear or documentation is unavailable.

This test is commonly used for immunity verification, occupational health assessments, travel requirements, or reassurance in individuals at risk of exposure.

Why do I need a test for Polio Virus Antibodies?

Most people in the UK are vaccinated against polio, but immunity can vary depending on vaccination history, booster status, or immune response. Antibody testing provides objective confirmation of protection.

This test is particularly useful for healthcare workers, travellers to regions with polio risk, people with uncertain vaccination records, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Are unsure about your polio vaccination status

• Need proof of immunity for work or travel

• Work in healthcare or laboratory settings

• Have a weakened immune system

• Are planning travel to high-risk regions

• Require immunity assessment for occupational screening

• Want reassurance of long-term vaccine protection

Benefits of the Polio Virus Antibodies test

1. Confirms immunity to poliovirus
   Verifies protection against all three poliovirus types.

2. Assesses vaccination response
   Helps determine whether vaccines have produced adequate immunity.

3. Supports travel health requirements
   Useful for regions where polio risk remains.

4. Relevant for occupational health screening
   Important for healthcare and laboratory workers.

5. Provides reassurance when records are missing
   Useful if vaccination history is incomplete or unknown.

6. Non-invasive immunity assessment
   Requires only a blood sample.

7. Supports public health compliance
   Helps ensure adequate protection in high-risk roles.

8. Identifies need for booster vaccination
   Low or absent antibodies may indicate reduced protection.

Step-by-step – how we offer Polio Virus Antibodies testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• A qualified clinician or phlebotomist collects your blood sample

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Polio Virus Antibodies results explained

Non-protective / low antibody levels

Low or absent antibody levels suggest insufficient immunity to one or more poliovirus types. This may occur due to incomplete vaccination, reduced immune response, or waning immunity.

Further vaccination or booster doses may be recommended based on clinical guidance.

UK reference interpretation:

• Non-protective: Below protective antibody threshold

Protective antibody levels

Protective levels indicate adequate immunity to poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3. This suggests effective vaccination response or lasting immune protection.

Protective immunity is required against all three types for full coverage.

UK reference interpretation:

• Protective: At or above protective antibody threshold

Mixed immunity results

Some individuals may show protective antibodies to one or two poliovirus types but not all three. This indicates partial immunity and incomplete protection.

Targeted booster vaccination may be advised.

UK reference interpretation:

• Partial protection: Protective for some serotypes only