Infanrix Polio (Poliovirus (Inactivated) Type 3 (Saukett Strain), Pertussis Filamentous Haemagglutinin Adsorbed On A)

Infanrix Polio is a combination vaccine that targets viral and bacterial agents responsible for serious childhood diseases.

• Poliomyelitis (type 3): induces protective immunity against poliovirus type 3.
• Pertussis (whooping cough): stimulates antibodies against pertussis filamentous haemagglutinin.
• Infants and young children: contributes to the recommended early‑childhood immunisation schedule.

• The vaccine contains inactivated poliovirus type 3 and purified pertussis filamentous haemagglutinin adsorbed onto an adjuvant. After intramuscular injection, antigen‑presenting cells process the proteins, presenting them to T‑cells, which then help B‑cells produce specific antibodies. The resulting humoral response provides active immunity against both poliovirus type 3 and pertussis antigens.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: mild to moderate discomfort at the site.
• Redness or swelling: localized erythema that resolves within a few days.
• Low‑grade fever: transient rise in body temperature.
• Irritability or fussiness: especially in younger children.
• Decreased appetite: temporary reduction in food intake.
• Headache: mild headache reported by some recipients.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Seizures: febrile or non‑febrile convulsions.
• High fever: temperature > 40 °C persisting beyond 24 hours.
• Hypotonic hyporesponsive episode: marked limpness and reduced responsiveness.
• Encephalopathy: rare inflammation of the brain.
• Guillain‑Barré syndrome: extremely rare peripheral neuropathy.

Infanrix Polio should be administered with consideration of the following precautions.

• Allergy assessment: avoid in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any vaccine component.
• Immunocompromised patients: consult a healthcare provider before vaccination.
• Acute illness: postpone if the child has moderate or severe fever or illness.
• Previous severe reaction: monitor closely after a prior dose that caused a serious local reaction.
• Pregnancy: safety not established; use only if the benefit outweighs potential risk.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Vaccination may be influenced by other medical products.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live attenuated vaccines: do not co‑administer within 4 weeks.
• Immunoglobulin therapy: may diminish immune response if given within 2 weeks before or after vaccination.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antipyretics: can be used for fever but may blunt antibody response if taken prophylactically.
• High‑dose corticosteroids: may reduce vaccine efficacy.
• Blood products: transfusion within 48 hours could affect immune response.