Adult Immunization

Abstract

Immunization of adults is as important as that for children. More than 25% of adult deaths are due to infections preventable by vaccination. It is a vast neglected field in India. Vaccines are recommended for adults on the basis of age, prior vaccinations, health conditions, lifestyle, occupation, and travel. Even in developed countries the vaccination coverage of adult population is negligible. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) annually reviews the recommended adult immunization schedule to ensure that the schedule reflects current recommendations for the licensed vaccine. Vaccines are recommended for adults on the basis of their age, prior vaccinations, health conditions, lifestyle, occupation, and travel.