The recent case of a two-year-old child being infected with the polio virus despite being vaccinated has caused a lot of concern and uncertainty. As the world moves closer to the goal of polio eradication, such incidents often give rise to misunderstandings, especially for children. Vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV). Therefore, it is essential to address these concerns with accurate information to prevent misinformation from hampering global health efforts. We got in touch with Dr Saurabh Khanna, Lead Consultant – Neonatology and Pediatrics, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram, who busted the myths about poliovirus.

Myth 1: Vaccines are ineffective against the polio virus

fact: polio vaccine The polio virus is quite effective in preventing infection. The oral polio vaccine (OPV) has helped reduce polio cases by more than 99 percent. However, no vaccination is 100 percent effective, and in rare cases, vaccinated people may develop the virus. This incident does not indicate a failure of the vaccine, but rather emphasizes the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to build herd immunity.

Myth 2: Vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) means the vaccines are unsafe

fact: Although OPV is safe and effective, like all vaccinations, it has limitations. VDPV complications are extremely rare, occurring in about one in every million OPV doses. The benefits of polio vaccination far outweigh the risks. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) regularly monitors VDPV exposure and adjusts vaccination efforts to reduce risks. In many countries, the switch to inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) has further reduced the risk of VDPV exposure.

Myth 3: Vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is as dangerous as wild poliovirus

fact: VDPV is a weakened form of the poliovirus that has evolved over time, usually due to inadequate vaccine coverage. Although it can cause paralysis, it is not as common or potent as the wild poliovirus. VDPV arises in areas with inadequate vaccination coverage, causing the weakened virus to spread and, in rare cases, mutate into a disease-causing form. High vaccination coverage prevents this by preventing transmission of the virus.

Myth 4: When a child is vaccinated, he is completely protected

fact: Although vaccination reduces the risk of poliovirus, no vaccine provides complete protection. Multiple doses are needed to maintain immunity. In rare circumstances, a vaccinated child may become infected with poliovirus, especially in places where vaccination coverage is inadequate and where VDPV may spread. This underscores the need to maintain high vaccination rates and ensure that all children receive the full series of vaccines.

Myth 5: Polio may no longer pose a threat to vaccinated populations

fact: Polio will remain a threat until it is eradicated globally. The virus can spread across borders, and as long as polio exists anywhere in the world, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated people are at risk. Vaccinated people are generally protected, but immunity can wane over time, making it important to vaccinate future generations. Continued vaccination campaigns are needed until polio is eradicated everywhere.

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