Unveils a guideline for adult vaccination at ‘Vaccinate & Save Lives’ initiative held in Bengaluru
Vikram Hospital, Bengaluru emphasised the urgent need of encouraging the importance of vaccination in adults. At the ‘Vaccinate & Save Lives’ initiative held in the city, a guideline for adult vaccination was unveiled by Sudhir Pai, Executive Director & CEO, Vikram Hospital, Bengaluru.
Vaccination in adults is recommended for prevention of diseases such as typhoid fever, Hepatitis A & B, Flu (including H1N1), pneumonia and human papillomavirus (HPV) – which is attributed to causing cervical cancer. As per experts, vaccines are especially important for those with chronic conditions, who are more likely to develop complications from certain vaccine-preventable diseases.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr K N Manjunath, Consultant Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Vikram Hospital, Bengaluru, said, “These days vaccination is an important step in protecting adults against serious diseases. Most people believe that they are vaccinated during their childhood and it will offer them immunity for life long. However immunity from childhood vaccinations wear off and people may be at risk for new and different diseases. Also vaccines and recommendations may change over the years and certain vaccines may not have been given during childhood. As we get older, we might also be at an increased risk of vaccine-preventable diseases due to our age, job, lifestyle, travel, or chronic health conditions.”
He further stated, “All adults 65 years of age or older, as well as people in the age group of 2 to 64 years who have diabetes or chronic heart, lung, liver or kidney disorders need protection against pneumococcal disease, and should consult their healthcare providers regarding its vaccine.”
Pai said, “In India the concept of adult vaccination is relatively new. The awareness about the availability of these vaccines is low. People ensure timely vaccinations for their little ones, however they do not bother to get themselves vaccinated”.
He further said, “Staying healthy is a priority for all and it’s especially critical for those with chronic conditions. The decisions taken today can save lives and improve quality of health in old age. Vaccination is a simple thing which can be done to prevent diseases.”