Poliomyelitis

Children are usually advised 4 doses of Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine. The first dose is given at age of 2 months and then the next doses are given at 4 months, 6–18 months and 4–6 years, respectively. However, sometimes Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine is given in a combination vaccine along with other vaccines. In this case, a child might receive a fifth dose of Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine.

Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine contains live attenuated poliovirus (strain types 1 and 3) and is intended for polio prophylaxis in infants 6-12 weeks of age, all unimmunized children up to 18 years of age and high-risk adults. Adults, however, should receive the inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV).

Polio vaccines are vaccines used to prevent poliomyelitis (polio). There are two types of polio vaccines, one is inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) which is given by injection and the other is weakened oral poliovirus vaccine(OPV) given by mouth.

Yes, polio virus attacks the nervous system which can lead to paralysis, especially of lower limbs. Therefore, it is important to get Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine as it provides protection against this virus.

No, IPV is considered more effective than Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine. Although, it is expensive and relatively difficult to administer. It was seen that giving Poliomyelitis Oral Vaccine alone led to more cases of polio when compared to IPV because it is a live form of the virus.