Will Propolis Affect the Effectiveness of Oral Polio Vaccine in Children?

Oral polio vaccine (OPV)

Dear Dr.
Hsiao,
My child just started first grade this year.
On September 26, he received vaccinations and the oral polio vaccine.
However, we have been in the habit of administering a few drops of propolis every night before bed to prevent colds.
I would like to know if the propolis we are giving will affect the efficacy of the injected vaccines and the oral polio vaccine.
Will the propolis kill the live bacteria in the oral polio vaccine? If so, what should we do to remedy this? Thank you!
Concerned,
Mom Li

Worried Mama Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/26

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

It is recommended to fast for half an hour before and after administering the oral polio vaccine (including not drinking water) to prevent food in the stomach from potentially compromising the vaccine's efficacy, as gastric emptying typically takes about half an hour to one hour.
Consuming propolis in the evening will not affect the efficacy of the oral polio vaccine administered in the morning, nor will it impact the efficacy of injected vaccines.

Reply Date: 2007/09/26

More Info

Hello, Li Mama,
Thank you for your question regarding the potential effects of propolis on the effectiveness of the oral polio vaccine (OPV) in children. It's great to see parents being proactive about their children's health and vaccinations.

Propolis is a natural resinous substance produced by bees, and it is often used for its purported health benefits, including antimicrobial properties and immune system support. However, when it comes to vaccines, especially live attenuated vaccines like the oral polio vaccine, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

The oral polio vaccine contains live attenuated poliovirus, which means that the virus is weakened but still capable of stimulating an immune response. The concern with any substance, including propolis, is whether it could interfere with the vaccine's ability to replicate and elicit an immune response. Currently, there is no substantial scientific evidence to suggest that propolis would negatively affect the effectiveness of the oral polio vaccine. The components of propolis are not known to kill or inhibit the growth of the live attenuated virus present in the vaccine.

However, it is always prudent to consider the timing of any supplements or natural products in relation to vaccinations. While there is no direct evidence indicating that propolis would interfere with the OPV, it is generally advisable to avoid giving any supplements immediately before or after vaccination. This is to ensure that the immune system can respond optimally to the vaccine without any potential interference from other substances.

If you are concerned about the timing of propolis administration in relation to the vaccine, here are a few recommendations:
1. Timing: Consider administering propolis at a different time than the vaccination. For example, you could give propolis in the morning and schedule vaccinations for later in the day or the following day. This way, you can minimize any potential interaction.

2. Consult with a Pediatrician: It’s always a good idea to discuss any supplements or natural remedies with your child’s pediatrician, especially in the context of vaccinations. They can provide personalized advice based on your child's health history and current health status.

3. Monitor for Side Effects: After vaccination, keep an eye on your child for any unusual reactions or side effects. If you notice anything concerning, consult your pediatrician promptly.

4. Follow Vaccination Schedule: Ensure that your child receives all vaccinations according to the recommended schedule. This is crucial for building immunity against various diseases, including polio.

In summary, while there is no evidence to suggest that propolis would harm the effectiveness of the oral polio vaccine, it is wise to manage the timing of its administration. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the best practices tailored to your child's health needs.
Thank you for your concern for your child's health, and I wish you and your family all the best in maintaining good health!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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