Which age group is most vulnerable to protein-energy malnutrition (PEM)?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Children aged 1-4 years. This age group is most vulnerable to PEM due to their rapid growth and development, high energy requirements, and dependency on caregivers for nutrition. Infants below 6 months are typically protected by breast milk, adolescents have lower risk due to fewer growth demands, and elderly are more at risk for other types of malnutrition. Therefore, children aged 1-4 years are the most vulnerable to PEM.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Live attenuated vaccines contain weakened forms of the virus. MMR vaccine is made from weakened live viruses of measles, mumps, and rubella. When administered, the body develops an immune response without causing the disease. Choice A, Hepatitis B vaccine, is a subunit vaccine. Choice B, Inactivated polio vaccine, is a killed virus vaccine. Choice D, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DPT) vaccine, is a toxoid vaccine. Live attenuated vaccines provide stronger and longer-lasting immunity as they mimic natural infection without causing illness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 12 months. The first dose of the MMR vaccine is typically administered at 12 months of age because this is when a child's immune system is more developed to respond effectively to the vaccine. Administering it earlier may not provide adequate protection. Choice A (At birth) is incorrect because newborns have maternal antibodies that can interfere with the vaccine's efficacy. Choice B (6 months) is too early as infants need time to develop their immune system. Choice D (18 months) is also incorrect as delaying the vaccine may leave the child vulnerable to diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Previous allergic reaction to the vaccine. This is a contraindication for live vaccines because individuals with a history of allergic reactions to a specific vaccine are at a higher risk of developing severe allergic reactions upon re-administration. It is crucial to avoid administering live vaccines to these individuals to prevent potential life-threatening complications. Incorrect Choices: A: Mild upper respiratory infection - This is not a contraindication for live vaccines as it is a mild and temporary condition that does not affect vaccine administration. C: Current antibiotic therapy - This is not a contraindication for live vaccines as antibiotics do not interfere with live vaccine effectiveness. D: Family history of allergies - While a family history of allergies may increase the risk of developing allergies, it is not a direct contraindication for live vaccines as long as the individual themselves does not have a history of allergic reactions to the specific vaccine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy is to reduce child mortality and morbidity. This strategy focuses on providing holistic care to children, including early detection and treatment of common childhood illnesses. By improving healthcare access and quality, IMCI aims to decrease the number of children dying from preventable diseases. Explanation: A: Reducing the incidence of childhood diseases is important but not the primary goal of IMCI. The strategy is more focused on reducing mortality and morbidity. B: Improving nutritional status is essential for child health but is not the primary goal of IMCI. D: Promoting exclusive breastfeeding is a key component of child health but is not the primary goal of IMCI.