A 6-month-old infant presents to the immunization clinic with a mild upper respiratory tract infection, low-grade fever (37.8°C), and rhinorrhea. There is no history of prior vaccine reaction. What is the appropriate action regarding vaccination?
- A Administer scheduled vaccines; minor illness is not a contraindication ✓
- B Defer all vaccination until the child is completely well
- C Administer only inactivated vaccines, defer live vaccines
- D Administer half the dose of each scheduled vaccine
Correct answer: A. Administer scheduled vaccines; minor illness is not a contraindication
Explanation
Minor acute illness with or without low-grade fever is NOT a contraindication to any vaccine under UIP. Deferring vaccination in such cases creates missed opportunities and leaves children unprotected. True contraindications include anaphylaxis to a prior dose or vaccine component, and encephalopathy within 7 days of pertussis vaccination. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics and WHO both recommend vaccinating children with mild illness.
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.