Polio immunization is a vaccine that protects against poliomyelitis. It is given in a series of four shots, starting at two months of age. Adults who missed doses as youths should complete the series. Pregnant women should delay vaccination if possible. Side effects are usually mild. Allergic reactions are rare but can be serious. Those who have had an allergic reaction to the vaccine should not receive further doses.
A polio immunization, or vaccine, is an injection that protects against the disease poliomyelitis, also called poliomyelitis. In the United States, most people get this vaccination at a young age. Contains dead viral matter. It is also called inactivated polio vaccine or IPV. This means that a patient receiving the injection cannot get sick with an active virus.
All vaccines work by stimulating the body’s immune system. Antibodies are produced in response to the introduction of viral matter. These antibodies are made specifically to fight a certain type of disease, such as polio. Once the body has these cells, an immunity to that disease is acquired.
A polio immunization is typically given in a series of four shots. It is recommended that infants receive a first dose no earlier than six weeks of age, but ideally around two months of age. The second dose is then given at four months of age and the third between six and 18 months of age. Assuming this schedule is followed, the fourth shot is usually given when the child is four to six years old. If the fourth injection is delayed until after this time, it is considered unnecessary.
Adults who received only the first one or two doses as youths may receive the remaining injections later in life. The additional time interval between doses does not interfere with their effectiveness. Experts have recommended that adults complete the full course of injections, especially if traveling to areas where polio is common. Healthcare and laboratory workers should also receive the rest of the injections.
If possible, pregnant women should delay polio immunization until after delivery. However, pregnant women who are at higher risk of getting polio can be given the injections. The vaccine is safe for breastfeeding women.
Some patients may experience mild side effects from the vaccine. Like any injection, it can cause redness and pain at the injection site. Allergic reactions rarely occur, although they are possible. Patients who experience difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, or hives should seek emergency medical care.
People who have previously experienced an allergic reaction to polio immunization should not receive further doses. Not even patients who have had allergic reactions to neomycin, streptomycin or polymyxin B. Those who are sick should only be given the injection after they recover.
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