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Polio Vaccine Dangers

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), polio is a dangerous virus that can cause paralysis or death in anyone who becomes infected. A vaccine has been developed that prevents individuals from developing polio and this vaccine is typically given in infancy. Although the polio vaccine is considered safe, there are some potential side effects that may occur after vaccination.

  1. Dangers of Live Polio Vaccine

    • Per the CDC, polio oral polio vaccinations contain a live virus. Although many individuals given the polio vaccine tolerate it very well, there were some cases in which individuals actually developed polio because of the vaccine. After 2000, the polio vaccine was given in an inactive form so that it was not possible to contract polio.

    Dangers of Polio Vaccine When Allergic to Antibiotics

    • Individuals who are allergic to certain antibiotics may develop an allergic reaction to the polio vaccine. According to the CDC, if an individual is allergic to streptomycin, polymyxin, or neomycin should not receive a polio vaccination.

    Discomfort at Injection Site

    • A common side effect of the polio vaccine is pain or discomfort at the injection site. In order to minimize pain children may be given a pain reliever such as acetaminophen just before or right after a polio shot is administered. Pain associated with a polio vaccine usually diminishes after a couple of days.

    Mild Reactions to Polio Vaccine

    • In some patients mild reactions may occur after the administration of the polio vaccine. In addition to soreness at the injection site an individual who has received a polio vaccine may experience a fever. This is usually short term but individuals who do develop a fever after a polio vaccine should tell their doctor about this symptom.

    Severe Allergic Reaction to the Polio Vaccine

    • Rarely severe allergic reactions to the polio vaccine may occur after administration. The CDC states that if an individual is going to develop an allergic reaction to the polio vaccine, it will take place in the first few hours. Signs of an allergic reaction to a polio vaccine include breathing difficulties, weakness, wheezing, fast heart rate, and swelling of the throat.

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