Should a 13-year-old who has never received the Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) be given a catch-up dose?

IPV Vaccination for 13-Year-Old Without Prior Vaccination

Yes, a 13-year-old who has never received the Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) should be given a catch-up vaccination series to ensure protection against poliomyelitis. 1

Catch-Up Vaccination Schedule

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends the following catch-up schedule for previously unvaccinated adolescents:

• First dose: Administer immediately
• Second dose: 4 weeks after first dose
• Third dose: 6 months after second dose 2

For a 13-year-old who has never received IPV, this 3-dose series is sufficient to provide protection. The minimum interval between doses 1 and 2 is 4 weeks, and the minimum interval between doses 2 and 3 is 6 months 2.

Rationale for Catch-Up Vaccination

• Polio remains endemic in some parts of the world, creating a potential risk of importation
• The first and second doses of IPV are necessary to induce a primary immune response, while the third dose ensures "boosting" of antibody titers to high levels 2
• There is no need to restart a vaccine series regardless of the time that has elapsed between doses 2

Important Considerations

• No maximum age limit: There is no upper age limit for receiving IPV; catch-up vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated individuals regardless of age 2
• Accelerated schedule if needed: If there is imminent risk of exposure (e.g., travel to a polio-endemic region), the minimum intervals between doses can be used 2
• Safety profile: IPV has an excellent safety profile with no serious adverse events linked to its use 2
• Simultaneous administration: IPV can be administered simultaneously with other age-appropriate vaccines 2

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Delaying vaccination: Do not postpone initiating the catch-up series. Protection against polio is essential, especially given the potential for global travel.

2. Using incorrect intervals: While minimum intervals can be used if necessary, optimal immune response is achieved with the recommended intervals (4 weeks between doses 1-2,6 months between doses 2-3).

3. Incomplete series: Ensure the adolescent completes the full 3-dose series for adequate protection.

4. Confusing with other vaccination schedules: The catch-up schedule for adolescents differs from the routine childhood schedule, which includes 4 doses.

By following these recommendations, the 13-year-old will develop adequate immunity against poliovirus, contributing to both individual protection and continued community protection against poliomyelitis.