Celebrating World Immunisation Week: Safeguarding Health Through Vaccination
World Immunisation Week, observed every last week of April, serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role that immunisation plays in protecting individuals and communities worldwide. Immunisation is not just a medical achievement; it is a cornerstone of public health that has saved countless lives, prevented diseases, and contributed to the eradication of deadly viruses. As we commemorate this week, it is crucial to reflect on the significance of immunisation and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every person, regardless of their location or circumstance, has access to life-saving vaccines.
The Power of Immunisation
Immunisation, also known as vaccination, involves administering a vaccine to stimulate the immune system to produce an immune response against specific pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses. Vaccines have weakened or inactive parts of the germ they protect against. This helps the immune system learn how to fight the germ if it encounters it later. This process equips the body with the necessary defences to fight off the actual infectious agent if encountered in the future, thereby preventing illness or reducing its severity.
The impact of immunisation on public health cannot be overstated. Vaccines have been instrumental in the control and elimination of numerous infectious diseases that once ravaged communities worldwide. Diseases like smallpox, which claimed millions of lives throughout history, have been eradicated through concerted vaccination efforts. Similarly, polio, measles, rubella, and tetanus are among the diseases that have been significantly curtailed through widespread immunisation campaigns.
Empowering the Underprivileged Through Immunisation
Immunisation is particularly vital for underprivileged populations due to their increased vulnerability to diseases, higher disease burden, and limited access to healthcare. By vaccinating these communities, we not only protect individuals with weakened immune systems but also prevent outbreaks and reduce health disparities. Immunisation programs are vital for accessing healthcare, saving costs by preventing illnesses and hospitalizations, and promoting health equity while strengthening overall public health by creating protective barriers against infectious diseases within communities.
Immunisation through Indus Hospital & Health Network’s Primary Care Programme
To serve the underprivileged, especially in far-flung areas, IHHN embarked on a transformative journey with the inception of its Primary Care Programme (PCP) in 2017. Up to now, more than 1.1 Million women and children have been immunised for various diseases such as Tuberculosis, Poliomyelitis, Diarrhoea, Typhoid, and more. In just 2023, more than 307,470 women and children have been immunised in our Maternal and Neonatal Programme.
Advancing Health for the Underprivileged
World Immunisation Day serves as a timely reminder of the lifesaving potential of vaccines and the importance of collective action in safeguarding global health. By prioritising immunisation, we not only protect individuals from preventable diseases but also contribute to the well-being and prosperity of communities worldwide. As we celebrate World Immunisation Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to making vaccines accessible to all and ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come.
