Yes, a 15-month-old child can and should receive the polio vaccine
A 15-month-old child is within the recommended age range for the third dose of the inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV), which is routinely administered between 6-18 months of age 1, 2.
Routine Polio Vaccination Schedule
The standard IPV series consists of 4 doses administered at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6-18 months (this is where your 15-month-old falls)
- 4-6 years
The minimum interval between doses 1,2, and 3 is 4 weeks, though the recommended schedule should be followed when possible 1.
Key Points for a 15-Month-Old
If this is the third dose: The child is right on schedule, as 15 months falls within the 6-18 month window for dose 3 1.
If the child is behind schedule: Any child can receive IPV regardless of delays. Time intervals longer than recommended do not require restarting the series—just continue where you left off to reach a total of 4 doses 1, 3.
Safety: IPV is approved for infants as young as 6 weeks of age, so a 15-month-old is well within the safe age range 2.
Important Clinical Considerations
Combination vaccines: If using DTaP-IPV/Hib (Pentacel) for doses at 2,4,6, and 15-18 months, the child will need a 5th IPV dose at age 4-6 years (this is acceptable per ACIP) 1.
Immunocompromised children: IPV should be used (not OPV, which is no longer available in the US anyway) for children with HIV, immunodeficiency, or those on immunosuppressive therapy 2.
No contraindications: Previous incomplete immunization or even prior polio disease does not contraindicate completing the IPV series 2.