The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is a vaccine used to protect against poliomyelitis, a viral disease caused by the poliovirus. IPV contains killed versions of the virus, which means it cannot cause the disease. It is administered through an injection and helps the body develop immunity to the virus without risking infection. IPV is part of routine childhood immunizations in many countries and is recommended by health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO). The vaccine has been effective in reducing polio cases worldwide, contributing to the global effort to eradicate the disease.