Vaccination, or immunisation, is one of the safest and most cost-effective measures to protect people from life-threatening diseases. A vaccine is a biological substance that builds immunity and strengthens the body’s defence mechanisms against specific diseases. Simply put, vaccination safeguards individuals from potentially fatal conditions by preventing the transmission of infectious diseases. This highly convenient preventive measure is an essential component of public health that promotes the overall welfare of society.
Dr. Girdhar Gyani, Director General, Association of Healthcare Providers (AHPI), shares, “Vaccinations are widely popular and administered to infants and children. Very little is known about Adult Vaccination. Adults must also receive vaccinations due to their significant impact on overall health. Adults must religiously take vaccinations and maintain their status, as immunity provided by childhood vaccines is known to diminish with time. Additionally, because of their age, work profile, lifestyle choices, travel, and underlying health issues, adults are very susceptible to diseases that can be prevented by vaccinations.”
Numbers speak: Adult vaccination status in India
Despite the availability of adult vaccines in India, countless adults suffer from severe illnesses that necessitate hospitalisation and even result in death, which could be prevented with vaccination. According to experts, vaccination can prevent over 95% of deaths caused
by vaccine-preventable diseases in India. Additionally, according to a 2017 study conducted by market research firm Ipsos MORI and sponsored by the British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), 31% of Indian adults had not received any vaccines in the previous five years. This demonstrates a significant lack of awareness regarding adult vaccines across India. Thus, stakeholders must spread awareness to ensure individuals aged 50 and older receive the recommended vaccines.
Here are some vaccines recommended for adults:
COVID Vaccine: COVID-19 has not disappeared completely. The virus still persists, leading to new infections, illnesses, and deaths. Adults must, therefore, stay informed and ensure they are up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. By doing so, they can help limit the transmission of viruses by preventing them from evolving into new deadly variants.
Cervical cancer vaccine: Cervical cancer is the second-most common malignancy among Indian women. A 2022 Lancet study claims India has the highest number of cervical cancer patients in Asia. The study further states that, out of 40% of total deaths from cervical cancer, 23% occur in India. Recently, the country achieved a significant milestone by creating its own quadrivalent HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer.
Flu Vaccine: A reoccurring illness that poses a double threat alongside COVID-19 is the seasonal flu, usually referred to as influenza or H1N1. It may result in potentially fatal consequences, like pneumonia. Thus, the flu vaccine is essential for adults to lessen its severity and prevent potentially fatal consequences.
Tdap/Td Vaccine: The Tdap/Td vaccine, which offers protection against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, and acellular pertussis, is recommended by the CDC for people of all ages. Adults should receive a booster shot every decade to enhance their immunity.
Pneumococcal Vaccine: Pneumococci are a transmissible disease and a global healthcare concern. Adult pneumococcal vaccinations are advised in India by nine medical organisations and societies. Pneumococcal disease may cause pneumonia, septicemia, and meningitis in children and adults.
Hepatitis B Vaccine: This vaccine-preventable disease is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). This viral infection causes inflammation in the liver tissues. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer affect 15–25% of people with chronic Hepatitis B. Regardless of a person’s risk factors for HBV infection, the Hepatitis B vaccine is available for all age groups, from infants to individuals 60 years of age or beyond.
Vaccine Hesitancy: A Serious Challenge
India’s disease burden is rising by leaps and bounds. Despite this, the implementation of adult vaccination programmes in India is in its infancy. This is primarily due to a lack of awareness and the prevailing scepticism among the public and healthcare providers regarding the effectiveness of various vaccines administered to adults. Furthermore, the narrow understanding among healthcare providers and the masses regarding the significance of vaccine-preventable diseases in adults poses another significant challenge. Thus, initiating a comprehensive policy for adult immunisation, supported by robust infrastructure, strategic planning, adequate funding, and extensive awareness campaigns, is the need of the hour.
