Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV)

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against some very serious infections. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization strongly recommends routine immunization. This vaccine protects children and adults against polio.

What is polio?

Polio is a dangerous disease that people can get from drinking water or eating food with the polio germ in it. This disease can cause nerve damage and paralyze a person for life. It can paralyze muscles used for breathing, talking, eating and walking. It can also cause death.

How well does IPV protect against polio?

The vaccine protects 99% of people who get all their needles.

When should IPV be given?

IPV can be given alone or in combination with other vaccines. A minimum of three needles containing polio vaccine, given two months apart, is required for protection. Adults who are likely to come in contact with the polio germ need to receive a polio vaccine booster.

These adults include:

People who travel to other countries where polio is common.
Laboratory workers who handle specimens that may contain the polio germ.
Health care workers who look after patients who may have the polio germ.

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if any of the following symptoms develop within three days of getting the needle:

Hives.
Swelling of the face or mouth.
Trouble breathing.
Very pale colour and serious drowsiness.
Other serious problems.

Who should not get IPV?

The doctor may decide not to give the IPV vaccine if the person has:

A high fever or serious infection worse than a cold.
A severe allergy to an antibiotic called neomycin, polymyxin B or streptomycin.
A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to this vaccine.
A severe allergy to any component of the vaccine.

Record of Protection

After you/your child receive any vaccination, make sure the doctor updates your copy of the vaccination record card. In addition, please report the vaccination to the Public Health Unit.

For more information, please contact a member of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Team by calling the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit at 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623.