Tag Archives: poliovirus

What is polio?

The cause of poliomyelitis (polio, for short) is a virus infection. The virus can be spread by drinking water contaminated with the poliovirus. It can also spread by direct contact such as kissing with an infected person. Polio is a serious illness. It can cause paralysis, when you can not move your arms and legs, or even death. Before the first vaccine against polio was developed in the mid-50's, thousands of children got polio every year. Fortunately, the use of polio vaccine has caused the presence of this disease is very rare in most of the world.

How can polio be prevented?

You can prevent your children from getting polio by making sure they get vaccinated against the disease.

What is polio vaccine?

A vaccine is used for protection against disease. The polio vaccine, also called inactivated polio vaccine is set with an injection. Previously, there were drops in the mouth.

When should my get child vaccinated?

Most boys and girls receive four (4) doses of polio vaccine under this scheme:

  • The first dose at 2 months.
  • The second dose when they are 4 months.
  • The third dose, when they are 6 months and 18 months.
  • The last dose when they are 4 and 6 years old.

Are there reasons not to get vaccines against polio?

Your child should not be immunized against polio if he or she is allergic to the following medicines: neomycin, streptomycin, or polymyxin B.

What are the risks of the vaccine?

Most people have no problems. Some people will have some soreness or redness where the shot was given them. Vaccines carry a small risk of serious harm, such as a severe allergic reaction. IPV can not cause polio.









What if my child has a reaction to the vaccine?

If your child has any reaction after receiving the polio vaccine, call your doctor as soon as possible. Also, if your child develops hives (swelling, itching and a burning sensation on the skin) if you have trouble breathing or goes into shock (becomes weak, faint, the skin gets cold, clammy and sweaty) , call 911 or take your child to the emergency room of a hospital. Be sure to tell the doctors who care for your son or daughter the day and time he or she received the vaccine. Ask your doctor to submit a report to CDC by filling out a form for reporting adverse reactions to a vaccine.