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 prevent poliomyelitis, a viral infection of the nervous system.

• Poliomyelitis: Provides active immunity that reduces the risk of disease caused by poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3.
• Travel to endemic areas: Protects travelers from acquiring poliovirus infection during international trips.
• Outbreak control: Used in mass vaccination campaigns to interrupt transmission of poliovirus in affected communities.

• The inactivated poliovirus particles retain their capsid antigens but cannot replicate. After intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, antigen‑presenting cells process these proteins, activating B‑cells and helper T‑cells to generate serotype‑specific neutralising antibodies, thereby establishing active immunity against poliovirus types 1, 2 and 3.

Injection of Imovax Polio may be associated with a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: Mild to moderate discomfort at the site of administration.
• Redness or swelling: Localised erythema or edema that resolves within a few days.
• Fever: Transient low‑grade temperature elevation within 24‑48 hours.
• Headache or irritability: Generalised mild discomfort, especially in children.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: Severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome: Rare autoimmune neuropathy presenting with weakness.
• Seizures or hypotension: Uncommon neurologic or cardiovascular events that need urgent care.

Prior to vaccination, certain safety considerations should be observed.

• Screen for severe allergic reaction: Do not administer to individuals with known hypersensitivity to any vaccine component.
• Observe after vaccination: Monitor for at least 15 minutes for immediate reactions.
• Immunocompromised patients: Use with caution in persons with severe immune deficiency; consult a specialist.
• Pregnancy considerations: Administer only if the potential benefit outweighs the theoretical risk.
• Store at 2-8°C: Keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Imovax Polio may interact with other medical products, requiring attention to timing and monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live viral vaccines: Do not co‑administer with live attenuated vaccines within 4 weeks due to potential interference.
• Immunoglobulin therapy: Concurrent administration may diminish vaccine immunogenicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Other inactivated vaccines: May be given concurrently but watch for increased local reactions.
• Antipyretics: May mask post‑vaccination fever; use as needed.
• Blood products: May affect antibody response if given within 2 weeks of vaccination.