The Open Vial Policy (OVP) under UIP allows multi-dose vials of vaccines to be used in subsequent sessions. Which of the following vaccines is EXCLUDED from the Open Vial Policy and must be discarded at end of session?

• A OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine)
• B Measles-Rubella vaccine
• C Hepatitis B vaccine (adult formulation)
• D BCG vaccine ✓

Explanation

Under WHO and UIP guidelines, BCG vaccine is excluded from the Open Vial Policy because it is reconstituted (lyophilized with diluent) and contains no preservative; once reconstituted, BCG must be used within 3 hours and discarded at end of session or 3 hours after reconstitution, whichever is earlier. Similarly, all reconstituted vaccines (measles, MR, MMR, JE live) must be discarded after 4 hours or at end of session. Liquid vaccines like OPV, DPT, TT, Hepatitis B, and Pentavalent are covered by OVP and can be reused for up to 28 days if stored correctly and vaccine vial monitor (VVM) has not changed.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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