What should you know about OPV oral polio vaccine?

OPV stands for oral poliovirus vaccine. It is given as drops into the mouth rather than by injection. The vaccine uses a weakened form of poliovirus to help the body recognise the infection and build protection. This protection matters because poliovirus can affect the nervous system and may cause weakness or paralysis. Vaccination also helps limit circulation of the virus in communities.

Follow the immunisation schedule provided by your child’s clinician and tell them about serious previous reactions, immune problems, or medicines that affect immunity. After the drops, follow the clinic’s feeding and observation advice. Mild fussiness or a brief change in bowel habits can occur. Keep the child hydrated and attend later doses when advised, because protection is built through the recommended series.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, or a rapidly spreading rash after any vaccine. Contact a clinician for persistent vomiting, marked weakness, unusual drowsiness, or any symptom that concerns you. These reactions are uncommon, but prompt assessment is appropriate when they occur.

Ask which polio vaccines are scheduled, whether a missed dose should be caught up, and what precautions apply if the child has an immune condition or lives with someone who is immunocompromised.