A mother asks about the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) schedule for her child under the Indian NIS. Which of the following is the CORRECT schedule?
- A 3 doses at 6, 10, 14 weeks with no booster
- B Single dose at 9 months
- C 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks plus booster at 9 months ✓
- D 3 doses at 2, 4, 6 months plus booster at 12-15 months
Correct answer: C. 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks plus booster at 9 months
Explanation
Under the Indian UIP, PCV13 follows a 2+1 schedule: primary doses at 6 and 14 weeks of age, with a booster at 9 months. This schedule was adopted based on immunogenicity and programmatic feasibility data for Indian settings. PCV protects against invasive pneumococcal disease including meningitis and pneumonia. It is administered intramuscularly in the anterolateral thigh.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.