Vaccine-Associated Paralytic Poliomyelitis (Paralytic Polio)

Polio was one of the most feared diseases of the 20th century. While vaccines have successfully eradicated wild poliovirus in most of the world, a rare and serious complication known as Vaccine-Associated Paralytic Poliomyelitis (VAPP) has left some individuals with life-long disabilities.

At Braden Blumenstiel Legal Advocates Group, LLC, we are committed to Righting Wrongs and Protecting Futures for those who have suffered from vaccine-related injuries. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with paralytic polio following a vaccination, understanding your rights is the first step toward justice.

What is Paralytic Polio?

Paralytic polio occurs when the poliovirus attacks the central nervous system, specifically the motor neurons in the spinal cord. This results in:

●       Acute Flaccid Paralysis: Sudden onset of muscle weakness or limpness in the limbs.

●       Loss of Reflexes: A lack of response in the affected muscles.

●       Respiratory Issues: In severe cases, the muscles used for breathing are paralyzed, requiring mechanical ventilation.

●       Permanent Disability: Many survivors face permanent paralysis or muscle atrophy.

How Can a Vaccine Cause Paralytic Polio?

While the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) used in the U.S. today cannot cause polio, the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)—which is still used in many parts of the world and was standard in the U.S. for decades—contains a “live-attenuated” (weakened) virus.

Vaccine-Associated Paralytic Poliomyelitis (VAPP)

In rare instances, the weakened virus in the OPV can undergo a genetic mutation and "revert" to a more dangerous, neurovirulent form. When this happens, the vaccine-derived virus can cause the exact same paralytic disease it was intended to prevent.

●       For Recipients: Paralysis typically occurs within 30 days of receiving the vaccine.

●       For Close Contacts: Because the vaccine virus is "shed" in the stool of the vaccinated person, it can occasionally spread to and paralyze unvaccinated family members or close contacts.

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP)

Because VAPP is a recognized side effect of the oral polio vaccine, it is listed on the Vaccine Injury Table of the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). This federal program provides a "no-fault" system for compensating individuals injured by covered vaccines.

If you meet the criteria listed in the table—such as developing paralysis within a specific timeframe after vaccination—the court presumes that the vaccine caused the injury. This significantly simplifies the legal process for victims.

Compensation May Include:

●       Past and future medical expenses

●       Lost wages or loss of earning capacity

●       Pain and suffering (up to $250,000)

●       Legal fees and costs

FREE CASE EVALUATION

Call us at 614-508-1677 or 1-888-343-9796.

Why Choose Braden Blumenstiel Legal Advocates Group, LLC?

Navigating a vaccine injury claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with a life-altering diagnosis like paralytic polio. Our firm specializes in helping families secure the compensation they need to plan for their long-term care.

Important Note Regarding Attorney's Fees and Costs: The VICP pays for your legal fees and costs separately from your compensation. This means you can have a dedicated legal team fighting for you with zero out-of-pocket costs.

If you believe you have experienced an adverse reaction or been harmed by a vaccine, contact us at 614-508-1677 or 1-888-343-9796 or fill out our online form below.

Righting Wrongs and Protecting Futures