A 1.8 kg neonate born at 34 weeks gestation is being prepared for discharge at 2 weeks of life. The baby is feeding well and has regained birth weight. Which statement regarding vaccination is correct?
- A BCG and OPV should be delayed until the baby weighs 2.5 kg
- B Vaccines should be administered at the chronological age, irrespective of birth weight ✓
- C All vaccines should be given at the chronological age equivalent to the corrected gestational age
- D Hepatitis B vaccine should be given at 6 weeks of age regardless of weight
Correct answer: B. Vaccines should be administered at the chronological age, irrespective of birth weight
Explanation
Hospitalized preterm infants should receive vaccinations at the same chronological age as term infants, regardless of birth weight or gestational age at birth. The only exception is hepatitis D vaccine if the mother is HBsAg-negative; the first dose may be delayed until hospital discharge or 1 month of age for infants weighing less than 2 kg.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.