Under India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), the Vaccine Vial Monitor (VVM) is used to:
- A Indicate cumulative heat exposure of a vaccine vial ✓
- B Detect bacterial contamination of vaccines
- C Monitor the cold chain temperature at the district level
- D Measure the potency of each vaccine batch
Correct answer: A. Indicate cumulative heat exposure of a vaccine vial
Explanation
The Vaccine Vial Monitor (VVM) is a heat-sensitive label on vaccine vials that changes colour (the inner square becomes darker than the outer circle) when the vaccine has been exposed to excessive heat. It provides a cumulative record of heat exposure and indicates when the vaccine is no longer fit for use. VVMs enable field workers to distinguish heat-damaged from undamaged vaccines at the point of use.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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