Polio detected in New York City sewage suggesting local circulation of virus, health officials say

NYC commissioner for health Dr Mary T. Bassett

Andy Katz | Pacific Press | Lightrocket | Getty Images

Polio has been detected in New York City, suggesting local circulation of the virus, health officials said on Friday.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett called the findings alarming. Bassett said local and federal health officials are aggressively assessing how far polio has spread in the city and in New York state.

Polio can result in permanent paralysis of the arms and legs and death in some cases. Health officials are calling on people who are not vaccinated to get their shots immediately.

This is breaking news. Please check back for updates.

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