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IAP perspectives on measles and rubella elimination strategies
Vipin M Vashishtha1, Vijay N Yewale, C P Bansal
1Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices (ACVIP) Correspondence to: Dr Vipin M Vashishtha, Convener, IAP Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices, Mangla Hospital and Research Center, Shakti Chowk, Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, 246 701, India. vipinipsita@gmail.com.
Abstract:
The Academy's Expert group on Immunization has discussed various issues pertaining to rubella vaccine introduction in to the Universal Immunization Program. Though the move to introduce rubella vaccine in to the UIP is laudable, the decision to overlook mumps seems inexplicable and illogical. Logistics also support the use of measles-mump and rubella (MMR) vaccine instead of measles-rubella (MR) vaccine. Regarding the timing of administration of MMR/MR vaccine, the academy recommends that the vaccine should be given early to have much higher coverage than introducing it late at the time of 1st booster of DPT. According to available evidence, both these vaccines (MMR/MR) can be given safely at different ages including at 9 months of age. The second dose should also be of the same antigen (MMR/MR) and be given along with 1st DPT booster at 16-24 months of age.
Insights
The Academy recommends introducing the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine into the Universal Immunization Program, advocating for early administration for higher coverage. The MMR vaccine is logistically preferred over the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- The introduction of rubella vaccine into the Universal Immunization Program (UIP) has been discussed by the Academy's Expert group on Immunization.
- The decision to exclude the mumps component from the vaccine strategy is questioned.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the optimal strategy for rubella and mumps vaccine introduction into the UIP.
- To provide recommendations on vaccine type and timing for improved immunization coverage.
Main Methods:
- Discussion and analysis by the Academy's Expert group on Immunization.
- Review of logistical considerations for vaccine administration.
- Evaluation of available evidence on vaccine safety and efficacy at different ages.
Main Results:
- Logistical factors favor the use of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine over the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine.
- Early administration of MMR/MR vaccine is recommended for higher coverage rates.
- Both MMR and MR vaccines can be safely administered at 9 months of age.
Conclusions:
- The MMR vaccine is recommended for introduction into the UIP, alongside the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine.
- Early vaccination at 9 months and a second dose with the DPT booster at 16-24 months are advised for optimal outcomes.
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