Final answer:
A polio vaccine (IPV) may be postponed or avoided in cases of severe allergic reactions to the vaccine or its components, and in those with a moderate or severe acute illness. IPV is inactivated, which makes it safer for immunocompromised individuals compared to live vaccines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'When would we hold off on a polio vaccine (IPV)?' relates to situations in which the administration of the polio vaccine may be delayed or contraindicated. Generally, contraindications for vaccines can include severe allergic reactions to a previous dose of the vaccine or to a component of the vaccine, and severe immunodeficiency for some live vaccines. However, IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) is not a live vaccine, so it is safer for immunocompromised individuals than live vaccines. Still, if a person has had a life-threatening allergic reaction to a prior dose of IPV or to streptomycin, polymyxin B, or neomycin (which are antibiotics that can be present in the vaccine), they should not receive the IPV.
Furthermore, if someone is currently ill with a moderate or severe acute illness, healthcare providers typically recommend waiting until the person recovers before administering any vaccine. It's important to note that a mild illness, like a cold, is usually not a reason to postpone vaccination. As always, specific medical advice should come from a healthcare provider.