India introduced the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) into the Universal Immunisation Programme. What is the scheduled dosing regimen for PCV-13 under India's NIS (2024)?
- A 3 doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks (3p+0 schedule)
- B 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks with a booster at 9 months (2p+1 schedule) ✓
- C 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks only, no booster
- D Single dose at 9 months with OPV
Correct answer: B. 2 doses at 6 and 14 weeks with a booster at 9 months (2p+1 schedule)
Explanation
India's NIS uses a 2p+1 schedule for PCV-13: two primary doses at 6 weeks and 14 weeks, plus a booster dose at 9 months (given alongside MR vaccine and Vitamin A supplementation). This schedule was recommended by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) based on immunogenicity data showing comparable efficacy to the 3p+0 schedule with programmatic advantage of fewer early doses. The 3p+0 schedule (option A) is used in some other countries but not India's UIP schedule.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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