Polio vaccine
Polio vaccines are essential for preventing poliomyelitis, a highly infectious disease that can cause paralysis. Two main types of polio vaccines are used: the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and the oral polio vaccine (OPV). IPV is given as an injection and contains all three virus serotypes (PV1, PV2, and PV3), while OPV is administered orally and uses a weakened form of the poliovirus.
Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV):
Administration: Given orally, usually as drops or on a sugar cube.
Protection: Protects against all three polio serotypes (1, 2, and 3).
Advantages: Easily administered, can be distributed quickly, and can help stop the spread of poliovirus from person to person.
Disadvantages: Can cause a rare but serious complication called vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis (VAPP).
Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV):
Administration: Given as an injection.
Protection: Protects against all three polio serotypes.
Advantages: More likely to be considered safe than OPV, but is not as effective at stopping the spread of the virus.
Disadvantages: Requires a more complex cold chain for storage and administration, and is more expensive than OPV.
Vaccination Schedule:
IPV: Usually administered in a series of four shots, with boosters at 15-18 months and 4-5 years.
OPV: A series of four doses are typically given, with the first dose at 6 weeks, then at 10 weeks, 14 weeks, and finally at 15-18 months.
Boosters: Boosters are also recommended for IPV, often at 4-5 years of age.
Importance of Vaccination:
Polio Eradication:
Vaccination is crucial for preventing polio and working towards its global eradication.
Protection:
Vaccines help protect individuals and communities from the severe consequences of polio infection, including paralysis.
