Full formMedical & Health
IPVstands forInactivated Polio Vaccine
Full Form of IPV
What is IPV?
The Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is a killed-virus vaccine used to protect against poliomyelitis, a highly infectious disease that can cause permanent paralysis. In India, IPV is a critical component of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), administered as an injection alongside the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) to ensure herd immunity and prevent vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks. Introduced in 2015 as part of the global polio endgame strategy, IPV is given routinely to infants at 6 and 10 weeks, with a booster at 16–24 months. It is also used in supplementary immunization activities (SIAs) in high-risk areas. Unlike OPV, which contains live attenuated virus, IPV uses inactivated strains, making it safe for immunocompromised children. India was declared polio-free in 2014, but IPV continues to be administered to maintain immunity and respond to any importation of wild poliovirus. In medical entrance exams like NEET and AIIMS, questions on IPV often focus on its mechanism, schedule, and comparison with OPV. Understanding IPV is essential for public health professionals and students aiming for careers in pediatric or community medicine.
IPV का फुल फॉर्म
निष्क्रिय पोलियो वैक्सीन
Example
The mother brought her six-week-old infant to the clinic for the first dose of IPV as per the routine immunization schedule in India.
IPV — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of IPV?
IPV stands for Inactivated Polio Vaccine, a killed-virus vaccine used to prevent poliomyelitis.
How is IPV different from OPV in India's immunization program?
IPV is an injectable killed-virus vaccine, while OPV is an oral live-attenuated vaccine. IPV provides individual protection without risk of vaccine-derived polio, whereas OPV offers intestinal immunity but can rarely revert to virulence. India uses both to ensure comprehensive protection.
Is IPV still given in India after being declared polio-free?
Yes, IPV continues to be part of the routine immunization schedule to maintain population immunity, protect against imported wild poliovirus, and minimize the risk of vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks.