How can poliomyelitis from the virus be prevented?
The following prevention measures will help prevent the spread of the poliovirus: • proper hygiene and hand washing techniques • immunization against poliovirus In the US, the polio vaccine is recommended to be given at the following ages: • 2 months • 4 months • between 6 and 18 months • between 4 and 6 years Two versions of the vaccine may be administered: • IPV Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is administered by injection (a shot). This vaccine is administered at all four immunization visits. Administration of the IPV cannot cause polio and is safe to use for individuals with weakened immune systems. • OPV Oral polio vaccine (OPV) is administered by mouth. In rare cases, OPV has been known to cause vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis (VAPP). As of January 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that the OPV not be given routinely and that only IPV be give
