OPVn

OPVn, also known as Oral Polio Vaccine n, is a live, attenuated vaccine used to prevent poliomyelitis, a viral disease that can cause paralysis. It is part of the global effort to eradicate polio, a disease that has affected millions of people worldwide. The vaccine is administered orally, typically through drops placed on the inside of the cheek, and is designed to stimulate the body's immune response to the poliovirus.

OPVn was developed as part of the ongoing research and improvement of the polio vaccine. It is a component of the trivalent oral polio vaccine (tOPV), which also includes the Sabin strains of the type 1 and type 3 polioviruses. The inclusion of the type 2 strain in OPVn is crucial for maintaining the global polio eradication efforts, as it helps to prevent the reintroduction of the type 2 strain, which is the most virulent form of the virus.

The vaccine is administered in a series of doses, usually starting with three doses given at two-month intervals, followed by a booster dose at six months, and then a final dose at 16-24 months. It is safe and effective, with a high level of protection against polio. However, like all live vaccines, it can cause mild side effects such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are usually temporary.

OPVn is a key component of the World Health Organization's (WHO) global polio eradication initiative. The vaccine has been widely used in various countries, contributing significantly to the reduction of polio cases. As of recent years, the number of polio cases has been significantly reduced, with only a few cases reported in certain regions. The continued use and monitoring of OPVn are essential for achieving the ultimate goal of polio eradication.