oral polio vaccine

The oral polio vaccine (OPV) is a vaccine given by mouth that helps protect against poliovirus, the virus that can cause paralysis. It contains weakened, live virus particles that stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight the virus without causing illness. When a person is vaccinated, their body builds immunity, preventing the spread of the virus in the community. OPV is effective, easy to administer, and has been instrumental in reducing polio worldwide. In rare cases, the weakened virus can mutate and cause illness, but overall, it remains a key tool in polio eradication efforts.