Docs Call For Adult Flu Vaccines To Tackle New Viral Infections, Health News, ET HealthWorld
Noida: In view of new emerging viral infectionsadult flu vaccination programs can mitigate the risk of outbreaks, said doctors on World Lung Day observed on September 25. They further said the universal adult flu immunization programs like the Covid vaccination will help mitigate the risks of further outbreaks which have epidemic and pandemic potential .
As a result, doctors suggest a practice of early reporting and active screening of respiratory diseases as this may help identify an early spurt and ensure timely actions.
“There are over 200 viral pathogens that cause respiratory infections in humans which is a major cause of morbidity and cause of death leading to significant healthcare costs in India, People look tired of wearing masks and getting nasal and throat swab tests done, while respiratory hygiene measures have gone out of public memory. Surprisingly, people are unaware that there are vaccines to prevent or mitigate such infections. There should be a universal adult flu vaccination programme”, said Dr Ankit Bhatiaconsultant, department of Pulmonology, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali.
During the event, the doctors highlighted that the general flu cases that used to appear in late monsoon and winter have emerged early. In order to strengthen the defense systems, active disease surveillance, universal flu vaccinations, respiratory hygiene education and usage of masks are important.
“Viruses are continuously evolving. There is a general theme in the respiratory viral infectious disease landscape that see a period of inactivity of several pathogens following their initial discovery and then reappeared in more severe and destructive forms,” said Dr Bhatia.
