## Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) in Indian Schedules ### NIS Pneumococcal Schedule **Key Point:** As of 2024, NIS includes PCV13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine 13-valent) at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, with a booster dose at 12–15 months (total 4 doses). ### IAP Pneumococcal Schedule **Key Point:** IAP recommends PCV13 at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, followed by a dose of PPSV23 (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine 23-valent) at 12–15 months or later, providing broader serotype coverage. ### Comparison Table | Parameter | NIS | IAP | |-----------|-----|-----| | Primary vaccine | PCV13 | PCV13 | | Primary schedule | 6, 10, 14 weeks | 6, 10, 14 weeks | | Booster/Additional dose | PCV13 booster at 12–15 months | PPSV23 at 12–15 months | | Total serotype coverage | 13 serotypes | 13 + 23 serotypes (sequential) | | Rationale | Cost-effective, high-burden serotypes | Maximum protection against invasive pneumococcal disease | ### Clinical Pearl **Clinical Pearl:** The key discriminator is the booster strategy: NIS uses a homologous booster (PCV13 again), while IAP uses a heterologous booster (PPSV23) to extend serotype coverage. This sequential strategy is more comprehensive but adds cost. **High-Yield:** The distinction between PCV13 booster (NIS) vs. PPSV23 booster (IAP) is a high-yield comparison question in NEET PG exams on immunisation schedules. **Mnemonic:** **PCV-then-PPSV (IAP)** — Conjugate first (PCV13), then Polysaccharide (PPSV23) for broader coverage.
Sign up free to access AI-powered MCQ practice with detailed explanations and adaptive learning.