Inactivated Polio Vaccine

Introduction

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is a safe and effective vaccine used to protect against poliomyelitis (polio), a serious viral infection that can cause paralysis or even death. IPV contains killed (inactivated) poliovirus strains and is given by injection. It helps the immune system develop protection against all three types of poliovirus without the risk of causing the disease. IPV is a key part of global immunization programs and is often given to children and adults in multiple doses.

Uses of Inactivated Polio Vaccine

• Prevention of poliomyelitis (polio)
• Routine childhood immunization
• Immunization for travelers to polio-endemic regions
• Booster dose for adults with incomplete polio vaccination

How Inactivated Polio Vaccine Works

Inactivated Polio Vaccine works by introducing killed strains of the poliovirus into the body, which cannot cause disease but stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies protect against future infection by recognizing and fighting the actual poliovirus if the person is exposed.

Benefits of Inactivated Polio Vaccine

• Effectively prevents all three types of poliovirus
• Cannot cause vaccine-derived poliovirus
• Safe for immunocompromised individuals
• Widely used and approved by global health authorities
• Can be used in both children and adults

How to Take Inactivated Polio Vaccine

The vaccine is given by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, usually in the thigh for infants and in the arm for older children and adults. It is administered in a series of doses as per national immunization schedules. Booster doses may be required for continued protection.

Type of Dosage Available

• Injection (intramuscular or subcutaneous)

Side Effects of Inactivated Polio Vaccine

• Pain or redness at injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Tiredness or irritability in children
• Swelling at the injection site
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Safety Advice

• Inform your doctor of any past allergic reactions
• Do not take if allergic to any component of the vaccine
• Postpone vaccination if you have a severe infection or fever
• Safe for use in pregnancy if clearly needed
• Monitor for allergic symptoms after injection

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Inactivated Polio Vaccine used for?

A: It is used to prevent polio, a viral disease that can cause paralysis and is potentially life-threatening.

Q: How is IPV different from Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)?

A: IPV is an injectable vaccine containing killed virus and cannot cause vaccine-related polio. OPV is oral and contains a weakened live virus.

Q: Is Inactivated Polio Vaccine safe for children?

A: Yes, it is very safe and recommended as part of routine childhood immunization schedules.

Q: Can adults take Inactivated Polio Vaccine?

A: Yes, adults who are unvaccinated or traveling to polio-risk areas may receive IPV as a precaution.

Q: How many doses of IPV are required?

A: Typically, a series of 3–4 doses are given during infancy and childhood, with booster doses as needed.