Delayed routine immunisation — DCH MCQ

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EasyImmunisationDelayed routine immunisationDCH

A 10-week-old infant missed their routine 8-week immunisation appointment because of a mild coryzal illness. The infant is now well, afebrile and feeding normally. What is the most appropriate advice?

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Correct answer: C — Give the routine vaccines as soon as possible

The correct answer is C. A minor coryzal illness without fever or systemic upset is not a reason to defer routine immunisation. As this infant is now well, the missed 8-week vaccines should be given as soon as possible. If an immunisation course is delayed, it is resumed; doses are not restarted, provided appropriate minimum intervals are observed for subsequent doses. Delaying for 3 months would unnecessarily prolong vulnerability to infections that can be severe in young infants, particularly pertussis. Pertussis-containing vaccines remain indicated, and vaccine doses should not be reduced because reduced doses may compromise immunogenicity.

Reference: UK Health Security Agency. Immunisation against infectious disease: The Green Book, Chapter 11: The UK immunisation schedule, 30 March 2026. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69cbb5ef8017673ffec0f313/Green-book-chapter-11-immunisation-schedules_30_03_26.pdf