It is not only for children, adults need it too
Disha Shetty disha.shetty@dnaindia.net
Tiny tots get everything from polio drops to BCG vaccinations but adults are often ignored. With focus on child vaccinations, adult vaccinations does not get the attention it deserves unless it is time to travel to another country for study or work. So here’s a low down on vaccinations that some adults might need.
Cervical cancer vaccination: It is triggered by the HPV virus and is a result of bad male hygiene. Transmitted sexually, cervical cancer is taking over breast cancer as the leading cancer causing death among women in India. “The vaccine is recommended for the 945 age group and can be given with other vaccinations as well,” said Dr Nilesha Chitre, gynaecologist, SRV Hospital. While awareness about the vaccine continues to remain low, the high cost is also prohibitive.” she added.
Pneumococcal vaccination: Pneumococcal infections are caused by bacteria which seriously infect the lungs, and the most vulnerable are those above the age of 60, especially those with diabetes. “Those whose immune system is compromised elderly, diabetics, TB patients and those with HIV are at a much higher risk of such infections,” said Dr Hemant Thacker, consulting physician at Breach Candy and Bhatia hospitals among others. Since around 25% of the infections can also be fatal, doctors advise the risk groups to opt for preventable vaccination that has recently entered the market.
Influenza & Hepatitis B: While the effectiveness of the vaccine can differ, those with asthma or any restrictive lung disease can opt for influenza vaccination. “While there are patients who have allergies, the vaccinations are recommended only after examining a patient,” said Dr Purvi Chhablani, general physician, Bhatia Hospital. “Medical or paramedical staff who are frequently in contact with blood and blood products are recommended for Hepatitis B vaccinations as well,” she added.
The most awaited one: With hundreds of dengue cases being detected in Mumbai this monsoon season, dengue vaccine is something Mumbai residents could have done with but unfortunately the WHO approved vaccine is not yet available in the Indian market.
source: DNA| 2nd Oct. 2016
Disha Shetty disha.shetty@dnaindia.net
Tiny tots get everything from polio drops to BCG vaccinations but adults are often ignored. With focus on child vaccinations, adult vaccinations does not get the attention it deserves unless it is time to travel to another country for study or work. So here’s a low down on vaccinations that some adults might need.
Cervical cancer vaccination: It is triggered by the HPV virus and is a result of bad male hygiene. Transmitted sexually, cervical cancer is taking over breast cancer as the leading cancer causing death among women in India. “The vaccine is recommended for the 945 age group and can be given with other vaccinations as well,” said Dr Nilesha Chitre, gynaecologist, SRV Hospital. While awareness about the vaccine continues to remain low, the high cost is also prohibitive.” she added.
Pneumococcal vaccination: Pneumococcal infections are caused by bacteria which seriously infect the lungs, and the most vulnerable are those above the age of 60, especially those with diabetes. “Those whose immune system is compromised elderly, diabetics, TB patients and those with HIV are at a much higher risk of such infections,” said Dr Hemant Thacker, consulting physician at Breach Candy and Bhatia hospitals among others. Since around 25% of the infections can also be fatal, doctors advise the risk groups to opt for preventable vaccination that has recently entered the market.
Influenza & Hepatitis B: While the effectiveness of the vaccine can differ, those with asthma or any restrictive lung disease can opt for influenza vaccination. “While there are patients who have allergies, the vaccinations are recommended only after examining a patient,” said Dr Purvi Chhablani, general physician, Bhatia Hospital. “Medical or paramedical staff who are frequently in contact with blood and blood products are recommended for Hepatitis B vaccinations as well,” she added.
The most awaited one: With hundreds of dengue cases being detected in Mumbai this monsoon season, dengue vaccine is something Mumbai residents could have done with but unfortunately the WHO approved vaccine is not yet available in the Indian market.
source: DNA| 2nd Oct. 2016
