Vaccinology of poliomyelitis

Vaccinology requires not only an understanding of the fundamental properties of the immune system and specific immunogens, but also the application of basic knowledge to develop effective immunization programmes for particular social, political, and environmental conditions. Two problems exist in the use of oral, live poliovirus vaccine: the occurrence of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis and the uncertain antibody response in tropical climates. These difficulties can be overcome by the use of killed poliovirus vaccine formulated to be effective with a single dose. Application of basic principles can bring poliomyelitis fully under control in all parts of the world.