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Poliovirus vaccine during pregnancy

The poliovirus vaccine is a live virus vacccine that is administered to prevent poliomyelitis or polio.

How poliovirus vaccine works

The poliovirus vaccine works by introducing trace amounts of live poliomyelitis into the body, stimulating the immune system into the creation of antibodiesA protein immunoglobulin which is produced naturally by the body and is essential to the immune system by working to combat foreign bodies, germs or bacteria. They are produced by thelymphoid tissue and consist of different classes each of which is designed to fight specific antigens. They include agglutinins, bacteriolysins, opsonins and preciptin.
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against the virus.

Poliovirus vaccine and pregnancy

There are no studies examining the effects of poliovirus vaccine during pregnancy. Most doctors recommend that the poliovirus vaccine, like all live virus vaccines, should not be administered during pregnancy unless the risk of exposure is high.

There is no evidence of poliovirus vaccine causing problems during breastfeeding.

The poliovirus vaccine is not recommended for children aged six weeks and under. If the vaccine is administered by means of an oral solution, the baby should refrain from breastfeeding for three hours before and after the immunization.

Known food interactions

There are no known food interactions.

There are no special warnings regarding the consumption of alcohol in conjunction with the poliovirus vaccine.

Disease interactions

Consult your doctor before receiving the poliovirus vaccine if you have a history of any of the following:

  • any immune deficiency condition such as HIV
  • a family history of immune deficiency
  • a household member with immune deficiency
  • moderate or severe illness causing fever or vomiting
  • you have ongoing diarrhea

Drug interactions

You should consult your doctor before receiving the poliovirus vaccine if you are:

  • currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer
  • taking corticosteroids
Reasons to consult your doctor

  • Consult your doctor immediate if you experience any of the following symptoms:
  • facial swelling
  • hives
  • itching, especially on hands and feet
  • redness of skin, especially around the ears
  • serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • severe fatigue
  • swelling of the eyes or nasal passages
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