This thesis describes the development of improved formulations and alternative delivery strategies for polio vaccination. A new generation of IPV should not only be affordable and safe to... Show moreThis thesis describes the development of improved formulations and alternative delivery strategies for polio vaccination. A new generation of IPV should not only be affordable and safe to produce, but preferably should also induce mucosal immunity, remain stable at unrefrigerated conditions, and be easy to administer. This is also important with regard to stockpiling and outbreak management in the period towards and beyond polio eradication. Solid dosage forms that have improved thermostability, like biodegradable Bioneedles comprising lyophilized IPV or polymer-based oral films, would be favorable to reach remote areas in developing countries for which proper logistics are not available. Replacing the currently used polio vaccines with a thermostable vaccine may yield significant cost savings. Furthermore, vaccination via mucosal routes showed to have important advantages over conventional intramuscular vaccination using needle and syringes. Show less
