The parents of a healthy 10-year-old girl wish to start HPV vaccination. According to the IAP recommendation, how many doses are required and at what interval?

• A Three doses at 0, 1 and 6 months
• B Two doses, with the second given 6 months after the first ✓
• C Single dose provides lifelong protection at this age
• D Two doses, with the second given 4 weeks after the first

Explanation

For individuals aged 9 to 14 years, WHO and IAP endorse a two-dose schedule with an interval of at least 6 months between doses, because immunogenicity in this age group is superior and two doses suffice. The three-dose schedule is reserved for those starting at 15 years or older, or for immunocompromised hosts. B 4-week interval is far too short and applies conceptually to spacing of live vaccines, not HPV.

Reference: IAP Guidebook of Immunization, 2022 edition ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.