Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (Cervarix or Gardasil 9) under the national programme in India targets which primary age group for routine immunization?
- A 15-18 year old girls exclusively
- B Boys and girls aged 11-12 years (2 doses)
- C 9-14 year old girls (2-dose schedule for routine age) ✓
- D 25-45 year old women as catch-up vaccination
Correct answer: C. 9-14 year old girls (2-dose schedule for routine age)
Explanation
India introduced the HPV vaccine into the national immunization programme targeting girls aged 9-14 years with a 2-dose schedule (0 and 6 months), as immunogenicity and efficacy is highest in this age group before sexual debut. A 3-dose schedule (0, 1-2, 6 months) is used for girls ≥15 years and immunocompromised individuals. GARDASIL 9 (nonavalent) is now the preferred vaccine offering broader HPV strain coverage.
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.