India achieved polio-free certification in 2014. The key epidemiological strategy that distinguished the final push in high-risk states (UP, Bihar) was:
- A Intensified pulse immunization with house-to-house mopping up, booth immunization, and transit team vaccination at railway stations and bus stands ✓
- B Switching from OPV to IPV exclusively from 2012 onwards
- C Limiting vaccination to children under 3 years of age
- D Vaccination only during outbreaks in affected districts
Correct answer: A. Intensified pulse immunization with house-to-house mopping up, booth immunization, and transit team vaccination at railway stations and bus stands
Explanation
The final elimination push in high-risk districts of UP and Bihar used an intensified strategy: pulse immunization rounds (National Immunization Days and Sub-National Immunization Days) combined with house-to-house catch-up (mop-up) vaccination to reach missed children, booth immunization, and transit vaccination at railway stations, bus stands, and pilgrimage sites. This ensured coverage of highly mobile and nomadic populations. IPV was introduced only later (2015 onwards under UIP) and was not the key strategy for the 2014 certification.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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