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Every year on 10th November, the world comes together to celebrate World Immunization Day. This day serves to raise awareness about vaccination as a preventive measure against diseases and as a public health tool. This serves as a reminder that vaccination is potentially the most effective form of health care for both oneself and others.
Why vaccination matters
Vaccination is like a shield that guards our bodies from harmful diseases. Similar to the helmet we wear when riding a bike to protect our heads, vaccines prepare and immerse us in the fight against infections. Vaccination trains our bodies to identify and fight viruses and bacteria, thereby lowering the likelihood of illness.
Vaccination has proved useful in reducing and even eliminating many infectious diseases. Take the case of smallpox, for instance. Global vaccination efforts have completely eliminated the scourge. In many parts of the world, polio and measles are no longer threats to any person due to massive vaccination.
Here are some interesting statistics about vaccination in India:
DTP3 (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis): In 2022, approximately 89% of Indian infants received the full series of three DTP doses. This indicates consistent progress in childhood immunization, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Measles: As of 2023, India achieved about 88% coverage for the first dose of the measles vaccine (MCV1). This is an important milestone, as measles remains a highly contagious disease.
In 2023, approximately 87% of infants in India received the third dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. The country continues to push for higher coverage, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Polio: India remains officially polio-free, with polio vaccination efforts continuing to protect against possible outbreaks. Continuous immunization campaigns guarantee vaccinations for every child.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV): India’s expanded PCV program is helping to reduce pneumonia-related child mortality. Recently, the national immunization schedule included the vaccine, increasing its coverage in high-risk areas.
Advantages of Immunization
It helps to protect individuals and communities. Vaccines will safeguard those who receive them. They will also protect people who, for various reasons, are unable to receive immunizations. Infants, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems fall into this category. This is known as herd immunity. A high vaccination rate lowers disease transmission and protects everyone in the community.
Vaccines save millions of lives annually. The WHO reports that immunization prevents 2-3 million deaths a year. Vaccination plays a significant role in the global battle against preventable diseases.
Reducing Healthcare Costs: Vaccination plays a significant role in reducing healthcare costs for both individuals and governments. The cost of treating the illness can be high, but preventing it can save money and resources.
Which vaccinations to remember?
On this World Immunization Day, it is essential to remember a few of the key vaccines that play a major role in the protection of public health:
Childhood vaccines
• The MMR vaccine prevents measles, mumps, and rubella.
• The DTP vaccine provides immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).
• Polio vaccine: It helps to immunize against poliomyelitis, causing paralysis.
Adult Vaccines
• Every year, people receive the influenza vaccine to help prevent seasonal flu.
• Every ten years, doctors recommend the Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.
• Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for adults age 50 years and older, it will prevent them from developing shingles, a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
Travel Vaccines
We recommend and require this for international travellers.
• Hepatitis A and B vaccines
• Typhoid Vaccine
• Yellow Fever Vaccine
Myths and misconceptions about vaccination
Despite the sheer proof that vaccines are advantageous, there are still various myths and misconceptions that discourage people from receiving vaccinations. Here are some common myths, along with the facts that refute them:
Myth: Vaccines cause autism.
Fact: Multiple studies have concluded there is no association between vaccinations and autism.
Myth: Natural immunity is stronger than vaccine-induced immunity.
Fact: It is true that natural immunity does provide some level of protection, but vaccines are created to provide a very robust and safe response against disease without the discomfort of actually having the disease itself.
Myth: Harmful substances in vaccines.
Fact: Researchers test vaccines for safety and efficacy. Vaccines contain such minute amounts of the ingredients that there is no chance of an adverse health effect on the individual.
The role of healthcare professionals
Healthcare practitioners also serve as advocates for the practice of vaccination. They would educate patients on the effectiveness of vaccines, respond to the needs of the layperson in answering their queries and easing their apprehensions, or motivate people to be up to date on immunization. Therefore, doctors and nurses can ensure the correct flow of information, potentially reducing misperceptions and ensuring everyone understands the importance of immunization.
What Can You Do?
All of us may take crucial roles in the successes of vaccination:
Stay informed about the latest vaccinations for all diseases that you can prevent. Identify trustworthy websites such as the WHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as reliable sources of information.
Vaccinate yourself: Make sure your family members' vaccinations are up-to-date, too. Schedule checkup times with your doctor to talk about immunizations.
Conclusion
World Immunization Day is a timely reminder of the importance of vaccines in protecting our health, as well as that of our community. It turns out vaccination is one of the most effective tools against preventable diseases. We all live healthier lives when we receive vaccinations and encourage others to do the same.
If you or someone you know has questions about vaccines or is unsure about getting vaccinated, it's essential to consult our best general physician.
