## Rotavirus Vaccine in Indian Immunisation Schedules ### National Immunisation Schedule (NIS) Status **Key Point:** Rotavirus vaccine IS included in the National Immunisation Schedule (NIS) of India. It was introduced universally under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) and is given at **6, 10, and 14 weeks** of age (3 doses), co-administered with DPT/OPV doses. ### IAP Recommendation **Key Point:** The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) also recommends Rotavirus vaccine at **6, 10, and 14 weeks** of age. The IAP schedule additionally specifies a catch-up provision allowing the vaccine to be administered up to **5 months (20 weeks)** of age if doses are missed, which is not explicitly stated in the NIS guidelines. ### Comparison Table | Feature | NIS | IAP | |---------|-----|-----| | Rotavirus inclusion | Included (universal) | Included | | Schedule | 6, 10, 14 weeks | 6, 10, 14 weeks | | Number of doses | 3 doses | 3 doses | | Catch-up provision | Not explicitly stated | Up to 5 months of age | ### Why Option B is Incorrect Option B states that NIS does not include Rotavirus vaccine — this was historically true before universal rollout, but is **factually incorrect** in the current NIS. Rotavirus vaccine (Rotavac/Rotasiil) has been included in the UIP/NIS nationally. ### Clinical Pearl **Clinical Pearl:** The key distinguishing feature between NIS and IAP schedules for Rotavirus is the IAP's explicit mention of a catch-up dose provision up to 5 months of age. Both schedules agree on the primary 3-dose series at 6, 10, and 14 weeks. **High-Yield:** Per IAP Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices (ACVIP) guidelines and Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, Rotavirus vaccine is now part of both NIS and IAP schedules at 6, 10, 14 weeks — the IAP additionally allows catch-up dosing up to 5 months.
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