World Immunization Week: Protecting Lives, One Vaccine at a Time
Despite being one of the most potent interventions, immunizations suffer from knowledge gaps that have left many at risk. Immunizations not only ensure that individuals are shielded against deadly illnesses but that disease outbreaks do not occur among the community.
In India, great strides have been taken by the implementation of the Universal Immunization Program, which sees full immunizations rates surpass 90%. The vaccinations currently in use not only guard against one type of illness but include many, including measles, polio, tuberculosis and hepatitis. Inadequate levels of immunizations can result in the resurgence of deadly illnesses.
Dr. Sanjay Choudhary, Senior Consultant, Paediatrics Fortis Escorts Hospital, Jaipur provides insight on the immunization, focusing on timely vaccination, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment and prevention.
Symptoms of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:
• Persistent high fever
• Rash (common in measles, rubella)
• Difficulty breathing (diphtheria, pertussis)
• Diarrhoea (rotavirus)
• Neurological symptoms like seizures (rare but serious)
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Most vaccine-preventable diseases are diagnosed through:
• Clinical examination
• Blood tests or lab confirmation
• Imaging or supportive investigations (in severe cases)
Treatment is often supportive rather than curative, including:
• Antipyretics for fever
• Hydration and nutrition
• Antibiotics (for secondary infections)
• Hospitalisation in severe cases
Who Is Most at Risk?
• Infants and young children
• Pregnant women
• Elderly individuals
• People with weakened immune systems
• Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals
Prevention Checklist: What You Can Do
• Ensure children receive all doses on time
• Keep vaccination records updated
• Do not delay vaccines due to mild illness
• Consult a doctor for missed doses as catch-up vaccination is possible
Immunization not only protect us as individuals but, when combined as a group, we can also protect one another through community immunity. This year’s World Immunization Week, let us recall that our vaccinations today ensure our protection tomorrow