The Open Vial Policy (OVP) allows multi-dose vaccine vials to be re-used at subsequent sessions. Which vaccine is EXCLUDED from the Open Vial Policy in India?
- A Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)
- B Hepatitis B vaccine (adult formulation)
- C BCG vaccine ✓
- D DPT vaccine
Correct answer: C. BCG vaccine
Explanation
BCG is excluded from the Open Vial Policy because it is reconstituted and highly susceptible to contamination once opened — it must be discarded after 3 hours of reconstitution or at the end of the session, whichever is earlier. OPV, DPT, Hepatitis B, and TT vials can be re-used at subsequent sessions for up to 28 days if the VVM is acceptable, the cap is intact, and sterility is maintained. Reconstituted vaccines (BCG, MR, JE-live) are all excluded from OVP.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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