According to the national immunization schedule, at what age should the first dose of measles vaccine be given?

Appeared in: PGIMER Nursing Officer - 2025

Explanation

The first dose of measles-containing vaccine is recommended at 9 to 12 months of age in India.
This timing ensures early protection while minimizing interference from maternal antibodies.
A second dose is given later to cover primary vaccine failure.
The schedule is designed for maximum seroconversion and community protection.

Option A: At birth is not recommended for measles vaccine because maternal antibodies present in newborns can neutralize the vaccine, leading to poor immune response.
Option C: At 6 weeks is the recommended age for vaccines like DPT, OPV, and hepatitis B (second dose), not for measles vaccine.
Option D: At 5 years is too late for the first dose of measles vaccine. By this age, children are already at risk for measles if not previously immunized.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Recommended age for first dose of measles vaccine in the national immunization schedule helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses must ensure timely administration of the measles vaccine at 9–12 months to prevent outbreaks and complications like SSPE.
Delayed vaccination increases the risk of measles infection and its complications in young children.
What if? If the vaccine is given before 9 months (except in outbreaks), the immune response may be inadequate due to maternal antibodies, requiring repeat doses.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the vaccine and its disease target (measles).
Recall the national immunization schedule for routine childhood vaccines.
Eliminate options that are clearly for other vaccines (e.g., birth, 6 weeks).
Focus on the age window that balances maternal antibody waning and disease risk (9–12 months).
Confirm with textbook or schedule reference if unsure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Recommended age for first dose of measles vaccine in the national immunization schedule
Stem keywords: national immunization schedule, measles vaccine, first dose, age
Lead-in keywords: at what age
Clinical cues: Routine immunization timing is critical for disease prevention

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Practise the full PGIMER Nursing Officer - 2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.