What is Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)?
Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is a live attenuated vaccine used to protect against poliomyelitis, a disease caused by the poliovirus. This vaccine is administered orally, making it easy to administer, especially in mass immunization campaigns.
How Does OPV Work?
OPV contains weakened forms of the poliovirus. When ingested, it stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus without causing the disease itself. This process helps the body to recognize and fight the virus if exposed in the future.
Who Should Receive OPV?
OPV is primarily targeted at children under the age of five, as they are most vulnerable to the severe effects of poliovirus. In countries where polio is still prevalent, OPV is part of the routine immunization schedule for infants and young children.
It provides strong immunity in the intestinal tract, which is the primary site of poliovirus multiplication and spread.
It can interrupt person-to-person transmission of the virus.
It is easy to administer as it does not require a needle.
In rare cases, the attenuated virus in OPV can mutate and lead to vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV).
It is not recommended for immunocompromised individuals due to the risk of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis (VAPP).
OPV is a live attenuated vaccine given orally, whereas IPV is an inactivated vaccine administered via injection.
OPV provides better intestinal immunity, while IPV induces strong humoral immunity.
IPV is safer for immunocompromised individuals.
What is the Global Status of Polio and OPV?
Significant progress has been made towards global polio eradication. Many countries have successfully eliminated polio through extensive vaccination campaigns using OPV. However, polio remains endemic in a few countries, necessitating continued vigilance and immunization efforts.
Why is Continued Polio Vaccination Important?
Continued vaccination is crucial to prevent a resurgence of polio. Herd immunity must be maintained until the virus is completely eradicated worldwide. Any lapse in vaccination can lead to new outbreaks, endangering children's health globally.
What are the Recommendations for OPV Administration?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and various health authorities recommend multiple doses of OPV for complete protection. The typical immunization schedule includes doses at birth, 6 weeks, 10 weeks, and 14 weeks, with additional booster doses as needed.
Can OPV Be Administered Alongside Other Vaccines?
Yes, OPV can be safely administered with other vaccines such as those for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP), and hepatitis B. Co-administration helps ensure comprehensive protection against multiple diseases.
How Can Parents Ensure Their Child Receives OPV?
Parents should follow their country's national immunization schedule and attend all recommended vaccination appointments. Participation in national immunization days and health campaigns can also help ensure children receive OPV.
Conclusion
Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) remains a vital tool in the fight against poliomyelitis, particularly in pediatric health. Its ease of administration, effectiveness in providing intestinal immunity, and role in preventing virus transmission make it indispensable. Continued vaccination efforts are essential to achieve global eradication and protect future generations.
