Community Medicine (PSM) · Immunization and Vaccines (Cold Chain, NIS Schedule, Open Vial Policy)

A health worker is trained on administering BCG vaccine to a newborn under the Universal Immunization Programme. What is the correct dose, route and site of administration?

  • A 0.1 mL intramuscular over the left deltoid
  • B 0.5 mL subcutaneous over the left deltoid
  • C 0.1 mL intradermal over the right deltoid
  • D 0.05 mL intradermal over the right gluteal region
Correct answer: C. 0.1 mL intradermal over the right deltoid

Explanation

BCG is given as 0.1 mL intradermally over the right upper arm at the insertion of the deltoid, using a 26G needle with the bevel facing upward. C correct intradermal injection raises a wheal. Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection causes local lymphadenitis and abscess formation, which is why route errors are a recognized cause of BCG adverse events. The left arm convention applies to smallpox scar placement, not BCG.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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