Polio (poliomyelitis) is a highly contagious disease caused by the poliovirus. It mainly infects young children and sometimes affects the nervous system, which can lead to paralysis and even death. Most people infected with polio have no symptoms; however, some will develop serious complications affecting the brain and spinal cord, such as meningitis, feeling of pins and needles in the leg (paresthesia), or weakness or paralysis in the arms, legs or both. These complications can result in permanent disability and death.
Why does my child need protection against polio?
There is no cure for polio once someone is affected. Treatment is focused on supportive care to help manage symptoms. The risk for lifelong paralysis is serious – even 15-40 years after recovery, individuals can develop new muscle pain, weakness or paralysis, a condition known as post-polio syndrome. And while, most people in the U.S. are vaccinated for polio, the disease still occurs in other parts of the world and can be brought to the U.S. through travel. The single best way to prevent polio is through safe and effective vaccination.
What vaccine protects against polio?
There are two vaccines that protect against polio – inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and oral polio vaccine (OPV). IPV is the only vaccine that has been used in the U.S. since 2000. While OPV is still used in many parts of the world, it is no longer licensed or used in the U.S. Children are recommended to get IPV at 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months and 4-6 years of age.
Is it safe?
Yes, IPV is safe. Because IPV uses an inactivated (killed) virus, it is impossible to get polio from the polio vaccine. Mild side effects may occur with the most common being soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site. Other possible side effects include fever, headache, tiredness or fussiness.
Is it effective?
Yes, IPV is safe and effective. Widespread vaccine use has significantly reduced polio around the globe, but it has not been eliminated. Receiving the full vaccine series best protects your child from polio. Most children – about 9 out of 10 – are protected against poliovirus after just 2 doses. After 3 doses, almost all children (99%) are protected from polio and the paralysis it can cause.