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

Imovax Polio is an inactivated poliovirus vaccine used in the prevention of poliomyelitis.

• Poliomyelitis: Provides active immunity that protects against infection with poliovirus types 2 and 3.
• Travel to endemic regions: Reduces the risk of acquiring poliovirus during international travel.
• Outbreak response: Supports mass‑immunisation campaigns aimed at controlling poliovirus outbreaks.

• Imovax Polio contains chemically inactivated poliovirus antigens of types 2 and 3. After intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, the antigens are taken up by antigen‑presenting cells, which display them to helper T cells. This triggers B‑cell activation and the production of neutralising antibodies that specifically bind poliovirus, preventing viral replication and disease.

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.
• Low‑grade fever: transient elevation of body temperature.
• Headache: mild headache occurring within 24 hours.
• Fatigue: temporary tiredness after vaccination.
• Muscle aches: mild myalgia at the injection site.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome: rare neurological disorder presenting with muscle weakness.
• Seizures: uncommon convulsive episodes.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure post‑injection.
• Extensive rash or urticaria: widespread skin eruption.
• Encephalitis: extremely rare inflammation of the brain.

Before administering Imovax Polio, consider the following precautions:

• Allergy screening: avoid use in individuals with severe hypersensitivity to any vaccine component.
• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare provider; limited safety data are available.
• Immunocompromised patients: vaccine may elicit a reduced immune response.
• Concomitant vaccines: follow recommended immunisation schedules to avoid interference.
• Post‑vaccination observation: monitor for immediate adverse reactions for at least 15 minutes.
• Store at 2‑8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Imovax Polio may interact with other agents as follows:

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live viral vaccines: avoid simultaneous administration to prevent immune interference.
• Immunoglobulin therapy: may diminish vaccine‑induced antibody response.
• Blood products: can reduce immunogenicity if given shortly before or after vaccination.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen): may mask fever, a sign of reaction.
• Immunosuppressive drugs: may lower the effectiveness of the vaccine and require serologic monitoring.