Under the India Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) as of 2024, rotavirus vaccine is included in the schedule. In which states/UTs was this vaccine first introduced, and what is the schedule under UIP?

• A Nationwide since 2015; 2 doses at 6 and 10 weeks
• B Added to UIP in 2022 nationwide; 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks
• C Not yet part of UIP; only available in private sector
• D Initially in selected states (Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh) from 2016; 3 oral doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks ✓

Explanation

India introduced the indigenous Rotavirus vaccine (Rotavac, Bharat Biotech) under UIP starting April 2016, beginning with Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, and subsequently expanding across the country. The schedule is 3 oral doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks (co-administered with DPT and other 6-10-14 week vaccines). The third dose must be given before 32 weeks of age (8 months). Rotavac has a protective efficacy of approximately 53% against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis in Indian studies. This national rollout made India the first country to include its own rotavirus vaccine in a national immunization program.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.