Difference between Salk and Sabin polio vaccines

Salk is also called inactivated poliovirus vaccine. Because it contains virus that cannot reproduce, it cannot cause polio. It mainly builds protection in the bloodstream. Sabin is also called oral poliovirus vaccine. It uses weakened virus taken as drops, helping build protection in the intestine as well as the wider immune system. That intestinal protection can reduce spread of poliovirus between people.

Both vaccines are designed to prevent poliomyelitis, an infection that can affect the nervous system. The vaccine used in a national programme depends on local policy, age, health status and current public-health needs.

Check the child’s immunisation record and follow the schedule offered by your local health service. Do not compare a missed dose with another child’s schedule: catch-up advice depends on age, previous doses and the vaccine available. Tell the clinician about serious immune problems, a severe reaction after a previous dose, or current illness before vaccination. Keep the record updated after each dose.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, facial swelling, collapse or widespread hives after any vaccine. Contact a clinician promptly for a high fever, marked weakness or another worrying reaction. Mild soreness after an injection or brief digestive symptoms after oral vaccination can occur, but a clinician can advise if they persist or worsen.

Ask which vaccine is being offered, why it is appropriate for the person being vaccinated, which doses are recorded, and how a missed dose should be completed. You can also ask what reactions to expect and which symptoms should prompt medical advice.