This is a vaccine against the polio virus. This vaccine contains 3 strains of inactivated polio virus. It is now preferred over the old oral polio vaccine which contained a live attenuated virus and could lead to some cases of polio itself (vaccine associated paralytic poliomyelitis or VAPP).

This vaccine can prevent infection with the polio virus which can lead to paralysis or death.

This vaccine is given as a subcutaneous or intramuscular shot, preferably in the mid-lateral thigh in infants and small children and in the deltoid of older children and adults.

Serious reactions are unlikely, but some people do get soreness at the injection site. Rare cases of Guillain-Barré have been reported, but causality has not been established. Safety in pregnant women and nursing mothers has not been established.

The recommended regimen is: 1st dose at 2 months of age, 2nd dose at 4 months of age, 3rd dose at 6-18 months of age, and last dose at 4-6 years of age. It is important that the last dose is on or after the 4th birthday and at least 6 months after the prior dose. Also, if 4 doses are given before age 4, a fifth dose should be given between 4 and 6 years of age.

Most adults do not need the shot since they received it as a child. However, a 3-shot series of this vaccine is recommended for adults who have never received the vaccine and are travelling to an endemic area, working with the polio virus, or working with patients who have polio. If these adults did receive 1 or 2 doses in the past, it is recommended that they get the needed 1 or 2 to complete the series. Adults in these groups who did receive 3 shots can get a 4th shot. Check with your doctor.

The vaccine is not recommended for anyone with a history of life threatening reaction to neomycin, streptomycin, or polymyxin B. Individuals with prior severe reactions to this vaccine may not be able to receive another dose. Check with your doctor regarding this issue and for any other contraindications for this vaccine. Also check with your doctor to find out what other ingredients may be in the vaccine, its container, or any diluent in case of allergies or other concerns. Immunization is usually postponed for individuals with a moderate or severe acute illness.

• Children < 5 years old
• Lack of immunity in person travelling to endemic area, working with the polio virus, or working with polio patients
• Lack of immunity in household contact of child receiving OPV
• Immunodeficient patients are at greater risk for paralysis when exposed to poliovirus

• IPOL®
• Pediarix® (combined with DTaP and Hepatitis B vaccine)
• Pentacel® (combined with DTaP and ActHIB®)