A 15-month-old unimmunized child is admitted with measles complicated by severe coryza and oral ulcers. Along with supportive care, the physician plans vitamin A supplementation. What is the correct WHO-recommended vitamin A schedule for this child?
- A 50,000 IU orally once
- B 100,000 IU orally on two consecutive days
- C 200,000 IU orally on two consecutive days ✓
- D 400,000 IU intramuscularly as a single dose
Correct answer: C. 200,000 IU orally on two consecutive days
Explanation
WHO recommends 200,000 IU orally on two consecutive days for children above 12 months with measles; children aged 6 to 11 months receive 100,000 IU on two consecutive days and infants below 6 months receive 50,000 IU. Vitamin A reduces mortality and ocular complications such as keratomalacia. Option B applies to the 6 to 11 month age group, which does not fit this 15-month-old child.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.