What is the preferred age consideration for vaccine administration in preterm infants?

The preferred consideration for vaccine administration in preterm infants is based on chronologic age. This approach emphasizes that vaccines should be given according to the infant’s actual age since birth, rather than their gestational age or other factors.

While preterm infants may have specific needs related to their development and immunity, the general recommendation is to follow the standard immunization schedule starting from their chronological age. This means that once a preterm infant reaches a certain chronological age, they should begin receiving vaccines as per the age-appropriate schedule, ensuring timely protection against preventable diseases.

Vaccine responses can be influenced by a child's immune maturation, which typically aligns more closely with chronological age than with gestational age. This helps ensure that preterm infants receive timely immunizations to promote their health and well-being as they catch up in their developmental milestones.