According to the Universal Immunization Programme of India, what is the latest acceptable time for administering the hepatitis B birth dose to achieve maximal protection against perinatal transmission?
- A Within 72 hours of birth
- B Within 24 hours of birth ✓
- C Any time before hospital discharge, regardless of duration
- D At 6 weeks along with the first dose of pentavalent vaccine
Correct answer: B. Within 24 hours of birth
Explanation
The hepatitis A birth dose must be given within 24 hours of birth because perinatal transmission from an HBeAg-positive mother occurs mainly at delivery, and delaying beyond 24 hours sharply reduces efficacy in preventing chronic carrier state. Giving it at 6 weeks with pentavalent misses the critical window entirely. This is why UIP mandates birth dose even for home deliveries, irrespective of maternal HBsAg status.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.