Poliomyelitis Vaccination in the Fall of 1956

Abstract

The question of degree and duration of vaccine effectiveness was considered by directing attention to the mechanism of immunity to paralytic poliomyelitis and to the factors that are of importance for the preparation of effective vaccine, and for effective use. Immunity to paralysis is mediated either through the presence of antibody in the circulating blood, or through the rapid re-appearance of antibody triggered by exposure of a hyper-reactive immunologic mechanism. A summary of recommendations was made on the basis of this concept, together with a consideration of available data in support of it. Concerning vaccine effectiveness, it was suggested that a realizable goal is a level of potency such that 2 doses will induce the desired effect. This was achieved, under laboratory conditions; under manufacturing conditions this seems to be true for the type II component. When this goal, is achieved, it would still be desirable to continue administration of 3 doses to provide the margin of safety necessitated by variation in response among individuals. Technical means whereby this might be accomplished were suggested, and other technical modifications that would facilitate vaccine production and testing were discussed. Most significant of these would be elimination of need for monkeys either for virus production for vaccine or for testing. That this can be accomplished was suggested by reference to work in progress.