Imovax Polio (Poliovirus (Inactivated) Type 3 (Saukett Strain), Poliovirus (Inactivated) Type 2 (Mef-1 Strain), Po)

Imovax Polio is an inactivated poliovirus vaccine used to induce protective immunity against poliovirus infection.

• Poliomyelitis (polio): Provides active immunity to prevent infection by poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3 in children and adults.
• Travel to endemic regions: Reduces the risk of poliovirus exposure for travelers visiting areas with ongoing transmission.
• Outbreak response: Supports mass immunization campaigns to control and eradicate poliovirus spread during public health emergencies.

• Imovax Polio contains chemically inactivated poliovirus antigens of types 1, 2 and 3. After intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, the antigens are taken up by antigen‑presenting cells, processed, and displayed to T‑lymphocytes, which stimulate B‑cell production of neutralising antibodies. The resulting humoral response confers active immunity that blocks viral replication upon future exposure.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: mild to moderate discomfort at the site of administration.
• Redness or swelling: localized erythema or edema that resolves within a few days.
• Fever: low‑grade temperature elevation occurring within 24‑48 hours.
• Headache: transient headache reported after vaccination.
• Fatigue: temporary feeling of tiredness.
• Myalgia: mild muscle aches.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome: rare autoimmune neuropathy that may develop weeks after vaccination.
• Seizures: infrequent neurologic events, especially in children with pre‑existing conditions.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure post‑injection.
• Acute allergic edema: swelling of face, lips, or airway.

Before administering Imovax Polio, consider the following precautions:

• Severe allergy: Do not vaccinate individuals with known hypersensitivity to any vaccine component.
• Acute illness: Postpone vaccination in persons with moderate or severe febrile illness.
• Immunocompromised status: Evaluate immune function; vaccine may be less effective.
• Pregnancy: Discuss risk‑benefit with a healthcare professional before use.
• Breastfeeding: Weigh potential benefits against unknown risks.
• Store at 2-8°C: Keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Imovax Polio may interact with other medical products as follows:

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live attenuated vaccines: Avoid co‑administration within four weeks to prevent interference.
• Immunoglobulin therapy: May reduce vaccine efficacy if given within two weeks before or after vaccination.
• Blood products: Concurrent transfusion can impair immune response.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen): May mask fever but do not affect immunogenicity.
• Immunosuppressive drugs: May diminish antibody production; monitor serologic response.