Why is immunization considered a lifelong shield, not just for children but for adults too?
Immunization isn’t just for childhood; it is considered equally important in adulthood as well. As we age, our immunity can weaken. In certain common conditions in adults, especially in the presence of systemic diseases, infections can become quite serious if not vaccinated. Take COVID-19, for example. It clearly showed us how vulnerable adults can be and the role of vaccination in preventing serious complications. Similarly, diseases such as pneumococcal pneumonia and influenza can cause serious complications but are vaccine-preventable. That’s why adults need to stay updated with the right vaccines.
From your clinical experience, how do vaccines contribute to reducing the risk of preventable disease across different life stages?
Vaccination plays a significant role. We consistently observe higher mortality and hospitalization from diseases such as pneumonia, flu or influenza complications, meningitis, and others. However, we notice that the people who have been vaccinated are far less likely to suffer from these conditions.
Even if a vaccinated patient has to be admitted, they recover faster and have lower mortality rates. Thus, vaccines prevent the occurrence of the disease, reduce the severity and mortality associated with infections.
Why should both parents and adults treat this as a health priority?
Immunization should be treated as a health priority because it helps reduce mortality, hospitalization rates, and the financial burden by minimizing the loss of working days. In both children and adults, vaccination helps maintain regular activities without interruption. Vaccinated individuals also suffer from milder forms of asthma and other respiratory tract diseases when protected against influenza and pneumonia infections, which are very common. Hence, it is clear that vaccines offer not just health protection but also economic benefits across all age groups.
How does vaccinating adults help protect vulnerable groups, including infants and seniors, through herd community immunity?
Vaccinating adults plays an important role in building community or herd immunity, which helps protect vulnerable groups like infants, seniors, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Benefits of herd immunity are evident in diseases like polio and some childhood infections. Although herd immunity effects are more clearly demonstrated in childhood vaccinations, they can still contribute to adult vaccinations on a large scale.
For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination helped reduce mortality even if the herd immunity effect wasn’t formally proven. Similar benefits for diseases such as influenza and pneumococcal infections are possible, although the herd immunity data is still evolving. Hence, we can say that vaccines create a safer health environment for all. India, too, has made significant progress in expanding immunization programs in all age groups.
How important is it for individuals to stay updated on their vaccination schedules even in adulthood?
It is very crucial. Many people are completely unaware of adult vaccination programs or don’t prioritize them. Adults with chronic conditions, especially those with asthma, chronic lung diseases, diabetes, or kidney or liver diseases, are at a higher risk of developing infections such as pneumonia.
The pneumococcal vaccine, now widely promoted in India, can significantly reduce this risk. Hence, it is important to be informed and updated with vaccinations as it is a crucial preventive measure to protect overall health.
What are some common myths you encounter about vaccines, especially when it comes to adult immunization?
One of the greatest myths is, “I am healthy, why do I need a vaccination?” Many adults strongly believe they won’t get sick. Another common myth is that vaccines cause complications, abnormal immune responses, or even severe side effects, often based on hearsay rather than facts. These myths need to be addressed through proper education.
Any advice you would like to give for this World Immunization Week?
Well, I would advise everyone to recognize and believe that no one is immune to health risks and diseases, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, respiratory, liver, kidney, or heart diseases. If immunity is weakened, the need for vaccination is even stronger. People should consult their doctors and healthcare professionals to know which vaccines are effective for them, when to take them, and ensure safety through proper medical advice.
