What is Polio?

Polio affects children below five years of age. The virus of polio attacks the nervous system and leads to complete paralysis within few hours. 

Vaccine Schedule 

The oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) doses are given to all kids under the age bracket of 5 years. It's given at regular intervals of 4-6 weeks. And till age 5, your child must have each dose of OPV. Your child will even be given the IPV (inactivated polio vaccine) via injections. Though IPV is more effective but unlike OPV, it only protects the person injected and not the people around. The schedule of the two is as given:

• OPV 1st Dose: At the time of birth
• IPV: At 6, 10 and 14 weeks
• OPV 2nd Dose: 6 months
• OPV 3rd Dose: 9 months
• IPV: 15-18 months
• OPV 4th Dose: 5 years 

Why Your Child Needs This Vaccine?

Polio virus can leave your child physically disabled for lifelong. It can hamper his or her growth, making life a burden to lead.  OPV ensures that your child stays protected from this virus and enjoys a healthy life ahead.  

Risk Associated with the Vaccine

Once the polio vaccine is given, the child might show signs of mild fever, or vomiting, which doesn't need any medical aid. 

When not to give the vaccine

The OPV can be given even if the child has fever or diarrhea. However, you should avoid or delay IPV dose, if the above conditions exist. 

Child Care Post Vaccination

As said, the vaccine dose can result into mild fever but there is nothing to worry about. These signs don't last for long. Just allow the child to have enough rest.

Can Polio be given with other vaccines?

Yes, certainly. There is no harm if the polio vaccine is given along with any other vaccine.

When to seek medical help

You must check in with your doctor if the child shows up symptoms like high fever, vomiting, or sore  throat. These can be indicative of either flue or also polio if the doses given fail.