Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, has initiated a comprehensive immunisation program aimed at raising awareness about vaccination across all age groups, the hospital informed in a press statement on Tuesday.
Recognising the critical role of vaccination in safeguarding individual and community health, the program underscores the importance of routine immunisation in preventing vaccine-preventable diseases and enhancing overall immunity, the press statement added. Dr Ankit Gupta, Paediatric Critical Care Specialist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, emphasised the significance of vaccination in combating infectious diseases. He highlighted the alarming decline in vaccination rates across the nation, resulting in a surge of vaccine-preventable illnesses among both children and adults.
"Vaccination rates are declining across the nation, affecting both children and adults due to a lack of awareness about immunisation," stated Dr. Gupta. "The consequences of skipping vaccinations can be severe, leading to complications such as severe headaches, encephalitis, and long-lasting neurological complications." The immunisation program at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, caters to individuals of all age groups, including adolescents, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Dr Badshah Khan, Consultant Paediatrics at the hospital, stressed the importance of boosting vaccination rates through targeted campaigns that educate parents about the benefits of vaccination. "By highlighting the benefits of vaccinations in preventing serious diseases and debunking common myths, parents can make informed decisions for their children's health," explained Dr Khan. "Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases,” he added.
Dr Jinendra Jain, Consultant Internal Medicine at Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road, highlighted the importance of optional vaccines for adults, including influenza, pneumococcal, varicella, and hepatitis A vaccines. He stressed the need for annual influenza vaccination, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and heart disease.
The hospital further informed that the immunisation program at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, follows the recommended vaccination schedule for different age groups, ensuring comprehensive coverage against a range of infectious diseases. From hepatitis B vaccination for newborns to influenza vaccination for adults, the program aims to promote preventive healthcare and reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable illnesses.
