IMOVAX® Polio

Product Information

• Name: IMOVAX® Polio
• Type: Inactivated Poliomyelitis Vaccine (Vero Cell Origin)
• Form: Suspension for injection
• Manufacturer: Sanofi Pasteur Limited

Indications and Clinical Use

• Indication: Active immunization against poliomyelitis caused by poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3.
• Population:
• Infants, children, and adults from 2 months of age for primary immunization and boosters.

Contraindications

• Acute Illness: Immunization should be deferred in the presence of acute illness, including febrile illness.
• Allergies: Contraindicated in individuals with allergies to any component of the vaccine or those who have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose.

Warnings and Precautions

• General: May not protect 100% of susceptible individuals.
• Special Populations:
• Pregnant Women: Limited data; avoid unless clearly needed.
• Breast-feeding: Caution, as it is unknown if the vaccine is excreted in human milk.
• Immunocompromised Individuals: Reduced antibody response; vaccination recommended even if response might be limited.

Adverse Reactions

• Very Common: Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling), mild fever.
• Common: Injection site mass, headache, irritability.
• Rare: Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, febrile convulsions, and lymphadenopathy.

Drug Interactions

• Concurrent Administration: Can be administered with other vaccines (e.g., DPT, Hib, hepatitis B) at separate sites with separate syringes.
• Immunosuppressive Therapy: May reduce immune response to the vaccine.

Dosage and Administration

• Children:
  • Primary Immunization: Three 0.5 mL doses subcutaneously. The first two doses 4-8 weeks apart, and the third dose 6-12 months after the second.
  • Booster: At age 4-6 years, and additional booster at 14-16 years if needed.
• Adults:
  • Primary Immunization: Two doses 4-8 weeks apart, followed by a third dose 6-12 months later.
  • Booster: Single dose if at increased risk and more than 10 years have elapsed since the last dose.

Storage and Stability

• Storage: Store at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Use immediately after opening or within 48 hours if stored in a refrigerator.

Clinical Trials and Efficacy

• Study Results: Induces high seroconversion rates and immunologic memory. Seroconversion in 99% of infants after two doses, with a booster dose inducing high titres of neutralizing antibodies.
• Immunogenicity: Demonstrates persistent immunity for 4 or more years following the primary series.