The Emergence of New Vaccines

Protection against rising pathogens is the need of the hour. The stronger the immunity, the better is the ability to fight against the infections. Scientists are putting their best efforts to bring out powerful vaccines. A vaccine is a biological preparation which guards the body against particular diseases. Prior to medical travel and leisure trips its recommended to get immunized. When entering a new territory, there is a possibility that the body may not be adaptable to environmental microorganisms.Being immunized gives one the protection from the foreign particles which could be harmful to the body. 

Travel-based vaccines 

Vaccinations for travel are advised to be taken before the journey around 4 to 6 weeks or at least 2 weeks prior. This would help you to know if any possible side effects would be seen and could be consulted with the doctor. Know about the essential vaccines needed based on the place you visit. According to international regulations, the vaccine for yellow fever is considered mandatory. Vaccination ensures dangerous infections are not carried by you to your hometown. 

Immunization in India 

The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in India came about in 1985. The primary objective is to provide vaccines against polio, tuberculosis and other diseases to Indian children.  The program provides vaccination for 12 diseases: 

    • Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) for Tuberculosis 

    • DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus Toxoid) 

    • OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) 

    • Measles 

    • Hepatitis B 

    • TT (Tetanus Toxoid) 

    • JE Vaccination 

    • Hib containing pentavalent vaccine (DPT+ Hepatitis B + Hib) 

The recent vaccines added to the list include the vaccines against rotavirus, rubella, inactivated poliovirus (IPV) and Japanese encephalitis vaccines. 

India had the highest incidences of polio cases. It was eradicated through a  vaccination programme with the collaborated efforts of WHO, Rotary International,  CDC, UNICEF, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Government of India. 

  

Vaccines for the older population 

Shingles is a common viral infection the causes painful rash seen in old age. There is a risk of developing shingles as one gets older. Most of the seniors over 60 years get hospitalized due to seasonal flu. Some of the vaccines which need to be taken includes: 

    • Seasonal Flu (influenza) vaccine 

    • Td or Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria & pertussis) 

    • Shingles vaccine (for 50years & above) 

    • Pneumococcal vaccine (for 65 years & above) 

Vaccination is crucial even in old age. Talk to your doctor to understand what vaccines are required by you. There could be ingredients in vaccines which individuals can be allergic to certain individuals, therefore, a doctor's consultation is recommended. 

Allergies & Vaccines 

Sometimes, there are instances where an individual shows allergic reactions upon the administration of vaccines. This is due to the ingredients present in the vaccines which may be: 

    • Egg 

    • Latex 

    • Gelatin 

    • Yeast 

If the patient shows an immediate type of reaction to these above components, it's better to have skin testing before taking immunization. 

Vaccination is necessary for all ages. From infancy to seniority receiving immunization is a must. As the environmental conditions are advancing, new pathogens are arising. Researchers and scientists are working towards a disease-free world through vaccination. There are plenty of vaccines for travellers which should be taken in advance. Vaccines are now existential at healthcare centers, hospitals, community centers. There could be vaccination programs in schools, colleges and even workplaces. A prompt vaccination paves the way for better public health services.