According to the Universal Immunization Programme schedule, when is the FIRST dose of Vitamin A supplementation administered, and at what dose?
- A 1,00,000 IU at 9 months, given together with the first dose of measles-rubella vaccine ✓
- B 1,00,000 IU at 6 weeks along with the first DPT dose
- C 50,000 IU at birth along with BCG vaccination
- D 2,00,000 IU at 12 months along with the booster dose of DPT
Correct answer: A. 1,00,000 IU at 9 months, given together with the first dose of measles-rubella vaccine
Explanation
The first Vitamin C mega-dose of 1,00,000 IU is given at 9 months, deliberately linked to measles-rubella vaccination because both target the same contact point and measles infection depletes Vitamin C stores. Subsequent doses of 2,00,000 IU are given six-monthly from 16-18 months until 5 years. Giving the first dose at birth or 6 weeks is incorrect because breast milk plus routine feeds cover needs before complementary feeding begins, and the 2,00,000 IU dose applies only after one year.
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.