## Birth Dose Vaccines in IAP Schedule **Key Point:** Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) birth dose is the only vaccine universally recommended at birth for all newborns in both NIS and IAP schedules to prevent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). **High-Yield:** The birth dose of HBV is critical for preventing vertical transmission of hepatitis B, especially in HBsAg-positive mothers. It should be given within 24 hours of birth. ### Birth Dose Vaccines Comparison | Vaccine | Age | Rationale | Status | |---------|-----|-----------|--------| | HBV (Birth dose) | Within 24 hours | Prevent MTCT | **Mandatory (NIS + IAP)** | | BCG | 6 weeks (NIS) or at birth (IAP optional) | TB prevention | NIS: 6 weeks; IAP: may give at birth | | Rotavirus | 6 weeks | Gastroenteritis prevention | Starts at 6 weeks (not birth) | | Pentavalent | 6 weeks | DPT, HBV, Hib | Starts at 6 weeks (not birth) | **Clinical Pearl:** Even in resource-limited settings, HBV birth dose is prioritised because it is the single most effective intervention to prevent chronic hepatitis B infection in infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers. **Mnemonic:** **HBV at Birth** = Prevent **H**epatitis **B** **V**ertical transmission. [cite:Park 26e Ch 8]
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