When considering immunization schedules, what are 'catch-up schedules' primarily used for?

Catch-up schedules are primarily designed to guide the vaccination of individuals who have missed their recommended doses. These schedules provide a structured approach to ensure that anyone, regardless of age, can receive vaccines in a timely manner if they've fallen behind. They address gaps in immunization history by outlining which vaccines are still needed and when they should be administered, according to the age of the individual and the vaccine type.

This is particularly important because vaccines are often given at specific intervals and ages for optimal effectiveness and protection. Catch-up schedules prevent individuals from experiencing prolonged periods of susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases. While other options may relate to vaccinations in particular contexts, such as adults, school-aged children, or future vaccinations, catch-up schedules specifically focus on rectifying missed doses and ensuring individuals are up to date on their vaccinations.