Following the polio endgame strategy, India replaced full-dose IPV in routine immunization with fractional IPV (fIPV). Which statement correctly describes the fIPV regimen under the National Immunization Schedule?
- A 0.5 ml intramuscularly at 6 and 14 weeks
- B 0.1 ml intramuscularly at 9 months
- C 0.1 ml intradermally at 6 weeks and 14 weeks ✓
- D Single 0.5 ml intradermal dose at birth
Correct answer: C. 0.1 ml intradermally at 6 weeks and 14 weeks
Explanation
fIPV delivers one fifth of the standard dose, 0.1 ml, by the intradermal route using a BCG needle, at 6 weeks and 14 weeks. Intradermal priming achieves mucosal immunity comparable to a full intramuscular dose, conserving global IPV supply. Option A describes the pre-fractional full-dose schedule, and option B confuses fIPV with the OPV co-administration visit.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 25th ed.
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