Polio vaccine (IPV)

The IPV vaccine is the best way to protect against polio. It is given by injection into the arm.

In young children, the polio vaccine is combined with other vaccines such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). A series of inactivated polio vaccines should only be given if protection from diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and Hib has already been provided through other vaccines.

Adults and children (including those new to Canada) who have not been completely immunized against polio may receive IPV vaccine(s)to complete the series.

Multiple vaccines can be given at the same time. This means earlier protection against multiple diseases and fewer appointments. Receiving multiple vaccines at the same time is safe and does not compromise the effectiveness of each vaccine. 

Polio is a serious disease that can lead to paralysis and death. The virus is most commonly spread through contaminated food or water.  It mainly affects children under five years of age.

However, infection and paralysis may occur in individuals of any age who are not immune. Canada has been polio free for more than 30 years, but as polio exists in other countries, it can be imported to Canada. The best way to protect against polio is to be vaccinated. When you get immunized, you help protect others as well.

The vaccine should not be given if you or your child had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past or is allergic to any of the ingredients of the vaccine or its container.

Inform your immunization provider if you or your child has any health problems or allergies.

Reactions are generally mild and last one to two days. The most common reactions include soreness, redness and/or swelling where the vaccine was given. Some may experience a fever, crankiness, drowsiness or loss of appetite. For mild reactions, a cold compress at the injection site may reduce discomfort.  Ask a health-care provider what medicine is best to reduce fever.

With any vaccine there is an extremely rare possibility (less than one in a million people) of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. For this reason, it is important to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs of this reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. This reaction can be treated. Seek immediate medical attention if you have left the vaccination site and develop serious symptoms.

If you or your child experiences unusual reactions to the vaccine or you have any questions or concerns, please contact your primary care provider, pharmacy, Public Health office or Tele-Care (811).

In New Brunswick, the publicly funded polio containing vaccines are provided at your local Public Health office or health-care provider.

Vaccination records for people aged 16 and older are available by registering online at MyHealthNB. To access your immunization record, please register or sign in to your account.

The paper record of immunization provided when vaccinated will continue to be the official record. Keep your immunization record in a safe place.

If the information on your record is incorrect or you received immunizations outside of New Brunswick and want them added, send an email to [email protected].

Immunizations administered prior to 1991 may not be readily accessible in MyHealthNB.  If your vaccination record is not available at MyHealthNB, contact the place you received your vaccines.