Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices (ACVIP): Recommended Immunization Schedule (2020–21) and Update on Immunization for Children Aged 0 Through 18 Years

Abstract

Justification: In view of new developments in vaccinology and the availability of new vaccines, there is a need to revise/review the existing immunization recommendations. Process: Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices (ACVIP) of Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) had a physical meeting in March, 2020 followed by online meetings (September-October, 2020), to discuss the updates and new recommendations. Opinion of each member was sought on the various recommendations and updates, following which an evidence-based consensus was reached. Objectives: To review and revise the IAP recommendations for 2020–21 and issue recommendations on existing and new vaccines. Recommendations: The major changes include recommendation of a booster dose of injectable polio vaccine (IPV) at 4–6 years for children who have received the initial IPV doses as per the ACVIP/IAP schedule, re-emphasis on the importance of IPV in the primary immunization schedule, preferred timing of second dose of varicella vaccine at 3–6 months after the first dose, and uniform dosing recommendation of 0.5 mL (15 µg HA) for inactivated influenza vaccines.