Inactivated poliovirus vaccine

Vaccine used to prevent polio

Template:Infobox vaccine

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) is a vaccine used to prevent poliomyelitis (polio). Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by the poliovirus, which can lead to paralysis and even death. The IPV is one of the two types of vaccines available for polio prevention, the other being the oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV).

History

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine was developed by Jonas Salk and first introduced in 1955. It was the first successful polio vaccine and marked a significant milestone in the fight against polio. The development of IPV was a response to the devastating polio epidemics that occurred in the early 20th century.

Composition and Administration

IPV is made from inactivated (killed) poliovirus strains of all three poliovirus types. The inactivation process ensures that the virus cannot cause disease, but it can still stimulate the immune system to produce a protective response. The vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection or subcutaneous injection.

Mechanism of Action

The IPV works by inducing an immune response in the body. When the inactivated virus is introduced into the body, the immune system recognizes it as foreign and produces antibodies against it. These antibodies provide immunity by neutralizing the virus if the person is exposed to it in the future.

Efficacy

The IPV is highly effective in preventing polio. It provides immunity to all three types of poliovirus and has been instrumental in reducing the incidence of polio worldwide. The vaccine is typically given in a series of doses, starting in infancy, to ensure long-lasting immunity.

Safety

The IPV is considered very safe. Since it contains inactivated virus, there is no risk of vaccine-derived poliovirus infection, which can occur with the oral poliovirus vaccine. Common side effects are mild and may include redness or pain at the injection site.

Global Impact

The introduction of IPV, along with OPV, has led to a dramatic decrease in polio cases worldwide. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative has used both vaccines in its efforts to eradicate polio, with IPV playing a crucial role in maintaining immunity in populations where polio has been eliminated.

Current Recommendations

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all children receive IPV as part of their routine immunization schedule. In many countries, IPV is given in combination with other vaccines, such as the DTP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis).

Also see

• Poliomyelitis
• Oral poliovirus vaccine
• Global Polio Eradication Initiative
• Jonas Salk
• Vaccine