## NIS vs IAP Immunisation Schedule — Key Differences **Key Point:** While the NIS includes vaccines funded by the government, the IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) recommends additional vaccines in its comprehensive schedule. Varicella vaccine is recommended by IAP but is NOT part of the universal NIS. ### Comparison of Vaccine Status in NIS vs IAP | Vaccine | NIS Status | IAP Status | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **Rotavirus** | Included (since 2023) | Included | Universal immunisation | | **PCV (Pneumococcal)** | Included (since 2017) | Included | Universal immunisation | | **Varicella** | NOT included | Recommended | Optional; not universally funded | | **JE vaccine** | Included (endemic areas) | Included | Endemic area coverage | | **Hepatitis A** | NOT included | Recommended | Optional; not universally funded | **High-Yield:** Rotavirus and PCV were added to the NIS in 2023 and 2017 respectively, bringing them to universal coverage. Varicella remains an IAP recommendation but is not part of the government-funded NIS. **Clinical Pearl:** Parents often ask about varicella vaccination; it is NOT free under NIS but can be given as a private immunisation. IAP recommends 2 doses at 12–15 months and 18 months or 4 weeks apart if given later. **Mnemonic:** **VAHA** — Vaccines Added by IAP but not in NIS = **V**aricella, **A**denavirus (in some contexts), **H**epatitis A, **A**dditional boosters. [cite:IAP Immunisation Schedule 2023, NIS Guidelines 2023]
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