Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been introduced into India's UIP for adolescent girls. The current recommended schedule for girls aged 9–14 years under UIP is:
- A 3-dose schedule at 0, 1, and 6 months
- B 2-dose schedule at 0 and 6 months ✓
- C Single dose for immunocompetent girls 9–14 years (pilot studies); 2 doses for older girls
- D 2-dose schedule at 0 and 12 months
Correct answer: B. 2-dose schedule at 0 and 6 months
Explanation
The Government of India introduced HPV vaccination into UIP in 2023 for girls aged 9–14 years using a 2-dose schedule at 0 and 6 months (interval of ≥5–6 months between doses). Girls aged 15 and above or immunocompromised individuals require 3 doses. India's domestically produced Cervavac (quadrivalent HPV vaccine) is used. WHO recommends that a single-dose schedule may be considered for 9–14-year-olds, but India's UIP protocol uses the 2-dose schedule.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.