Did you know that immunization is one of the most effective ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from dangerous diseases? Every year, World Immunization Week reminds us of how crucial vaccines are in protecting our communities—whether it’s your baby’s first shots, your child’s booster dose, or even a flu vaccine for grandma. Vaccines save millions of lives every year, and they’re not just for kids!
In India, over 1.3 million children miss their routine immunizations annually, putting them at risk for preventable diseases. But here’s the thing: vaccines aren’t just for kids. Adults, including the elderly, need them too. Whether it’s a pneumonia vaccine for older adults or a flu shot for busy professionals, everyone—at every stage of life—deserves the protection vaccines provide.
At Artemis Hospital, we’re proud to be part of this global effort to raise awareness. We’re committed to making sure that you and your family have access to safe and effective vaccines, no matter your age. We’re not just talking about protecting your newborns; we’re also talking about safeguarding you and your parents, ensuring everyone has the best chance at a healthy future.
Vaccination vs. Immunization: What’s the Difference?
While the terms “vaccination” and “immunization” are often used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. Vaccination refers to the process of receiving a vaccine, typically through an injection or oral dose, to stimulate the immune system. Immunization, on the other hand, is the process through which the body becomes protected (or immune) to specific diseases, whether through vaccination or prior infection.
Why is Immunization Important for All Age Groups?
Every age group has different needs when it comes to immunization. It’s essential to understand that vaccines help protect individuals from serious diseases that can otherwise lead to hospitalization or worse.
Importance Of Infants for (0-2 years)
Infants are most vulnerable to infections, making it critical to adhere to the National Immunization Schedule (NIS). Vaccines like BCG, Hepatitis B, DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus), and Polio are crucial at this stage, safeguarding your baby from life-threatening diseases.
Hospital Tip: At the hospital, we offer personalized immunization schedules to ensure your child gets the right vaccines at the right time. If you're unsure about your child's vaccination, our pediatricians are always ready to guide you.
For Children (3-12 years)
As children grow, they encounter more social settings, increasing the likelihood of exposure to contagious diseases. Vaccines like Measles-Rubella (MR) and Hepatitis A are essential during this stage. With the recent push for HPV vaccination, children can also be protected against human papillomavirus, which is linked to cancer prevention later in life.
Hospital Tip: We provide catch-up vaccines for children who may have missed doses earlier. Our pediatric department ensures that every child’s immunization is up-to-date, reducing the risk of outbreaks in school settings.
For Adults (18-60 years)
Immunization is not just for kids. Many adults, especially those with underlying health conditions, must stay on top of immunizations. Vaccines like Flu, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus are vital for this group. Additionally, the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters are essential in maintaining immunity.
Hospital Tip: Many adults overlook the importance of vaccines, thinking they’re only for kids. It’s important to consult our internal medicine specialists about which vaccines are right for your age group. For example, flu shots and tetanus boosters are especially important for adults who are often exposed to common infections.
For Older Adults (60+ years)
As we age, the immune system weakens. Seniors are particularly at risk for complications from illnesses like flu, pneumonia, and shingles. Vaccines like the Pneumococcal vaccine and Shingles vaccine are essential at this stage. These vaccines help prevent serious illnesses that are harder to recover from in later years.
Hospital Tip: Our geriatric care specialists recommend vaccines tailored to your needs and health conditions. Staying proactive in your health with vaccines can reduce the risk of hospitalizations and long-term complications. Speak to our team for personalized vaccine recommendations for older adults.
India’s National Immunization Program
India runs one of the largest public health vaccination efforts in the world—called the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). Started in 1985, it provides free vaccines to children and pregnant women across the country.
Under UIP, more than 12 vaccines are provided at no cost. The program reaches every corner of India—from cities and villages to tribal areas—through Primary Health Centres, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA health volunteers.
Age-Specific Vaccination Chart (as per India’s UIP)
Age of Child / Mother | Vaccine Name | Site of Administration | Route |
At Birth | BCG | Left Upper Arm | Intradermal |
Hepatitis B Birth Dose | Anterolateral Thigh (Right) | Intramuscular |
OPV-0 (Polio) | Oral | Oral |
6 Weeks | Pentavalent 1 (DPT + Hep B + Hib) | Anterolateral Thigh (Left) | Intramuscular |
OPV-1 | Oral | Oral |
Rotavirus-1 | Oral | Oral |
PCV-1 (Pneumococcal) | Anterolateral Thigh (Right) | Intramuscular |
10 Weeks | Pentavalent 2 | Anterolateral Thigh (Left) | Intramuscular |
OPV-2 | Oral | Oral |
Rotavirus-2 | Oral | Oral |
PCV-2 | Anterolateral Thigh (Right) | Intramuscular |
14 Weeks | Pentavalent 3 | Anterolateral Thigh (Left) | Intramuscular |
OPV-3 | Oral | Oral |
Rotavirus-3 | Oral | Oral |
PCV-3 | Anterolateral Thigh (Right) | Intramuscular |
IPV (Inactivated Polio) | Anterolateral Thigh (Right) | Intramuscular |
9 Months | Measles-Rubella (MR) 1st Dose | Right Upper Arm | Subcutaneous |
JE-1 (in endemic areas) | Left Upper Arm | Subcutaneous |
16–24 Months | MR 2nd Dose | Right Upper Arm | Subcutaneous |
DPT 1st Booster | Anterolateral Thigh (Left) | Intramuscular |
OPV Booster | Oral | Oral |
JE-2 (in endemic areas) | Left Upper Arm | Subcutaneous |
5–6 Years | DPT 2nd Booster | Upper Arm (Deltoid) | Intramuscular |
10 and 16 Years | Tetanus & Diphtheria (Td) | Upper Arm (Deltoid) | Intramuscular |
Pregnant Women | Td-1 (Early pregnancy) | Upper Arm (Deltoid) | Intramuscular |
Td-2 (4 weeks after Td-1) | Upper Arm (Deltoid) | Intramuscular |
Why is Immunization More Important Than Ever?
Immunization is one of the greatest achievements of public health. It doesn't just protect individuals—it protects entire communities. At a time when infectious diseases can spread quickly, timely immunization helps us stay ahead and ensures a healthier, safer society for everyone.
Health Benefits of Immunization
Stops the Spread of Disease: Immunization helps break the chain of transmission. When a large portion of the population is immunized, diseases like measles, diphtheria, or rubella find it harder to spread.
Reduces Healthcare Burden By preventing diseases before they happen, immunization lowers the need for doctor visits, hospital stays, and expensive treatments. It saves families time, stress, and money.
Protects the Most Vulnerable: There are people who can’t be immunized—newborn babies, cancer patients, the elderly with weak immune systems. When the rest of us are protected through immunization, we indirectly shield them too. This is called community protection or herd immunity.
Key Government Initiatives for Better Immunization
Mission Indradhanush:
Launched in 2014, this mission aims to cover all children who missed out on vaccines under UIP. The name "Indradhanush" means rainbow, reflecting the broad coverage of vaccines. Under this mission, focused immunization drives are conducted across districts with low vaccine coverage.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI):
This version of the mission was launched to accelerate coverage in high-priority districts and urban slums. It focuses on real-time monitoring, mobile vaccination vans, and direct engagement with parents.
eVIN (Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network):
A digital system used in India to track vaccine stocks, monitor temperature, and prevent wastage. It ensures that vaccines are stored safely from manufacturer to beneficiary.
CoWIN for COVID-19 Vaccines:
The success of India's COVID-19 vaccination drive, which delivered over 2 billion doses, was powered by the CoWIN digital platform. This set the stage for expanding digital tracking of all vaccines in the future.
Safe and Reliable Vaccination at Artemis Hospital
When it comes to immunization, safety is paramount. Vaccination is an essential tool for preventing diseases, but not all vaccines are created equal. It’s important to have vaccines administered in a controlled, clinical setting where proper care is taken to ensure safe handling and administration.
At Artemis Hospital, we pride ourselves on providing safe vaccination services. We ensure that each vaccine is stored, handled, and administered according to the highest standards to prevent any risk of contamination or adverse reactions. Our trained healthcare professionals carefully review your medical history to ensure the right vaccine is given at the right time, minimizing any potential risks.
Article By Dr. P Venkata Krishnan
Sr. Consultant - Internal Medicine
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
I missed some vaccines as a child—can I still take them as an adult?
Yes! It’s never too late. Many childhood vaccines can still be given to adults, and we offer catch-up schedules to get you on track.
I travel often for work. Are there special vaccines I need?
Yes! Depending on where you’re going, vaccines like yellow fever or typhoid may be required. Our hospital offers travel health consultations to help you prepare.
Can vaccines be given together, or should I space them out?
In most cases, vaccines can be safely given together. Our doctors can customize a vaccination schedule for you that works best for your needs.
I’m healthy and rarely fall sick. Do I still need vaccines?
Yes! Vaccines protect against diseases that can affect anyone, no matter how healthy you are. Prevention is always easier than treatment.
My elderly parents live with me. Should we all get flu and pneumonia shots?
Yes! Vaccines like flu and pneumonia are especially important for older adults to protect them from serious health complications. We recommend getting vaccinated as a family.
I’m pregnant. Is it safe to get vaccinated?
Certain vaccines, like the flu and Tdap vaccines, are not only safe during pregnancy but are strongly recommended to protect both you and your baby. Always check with our obstetrics team for tailored advice.
What happens if I skip a booster dose?
Booster doses are crucial for maintaining immunity. Skipping a booster can reduce your protection. Don't worry—just get back on track with your vaccination schedule as soon as possible.
How do I keep track of my vaccinations?
We recommend keeping a digital or paper record of all your vaccinations. Our hospital provides personalized vaccination tracking to ensure you never miss a dose.
Where can I get vaccinated in Gurgaon?
You can visit Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon to get all your routine vaccinations, including those for infants, children, adults, pregnant women, and seniors. We have dedicated vaccination clinics where our experienced doctors will guide you through your immunization schedule and ensure you and your family stay protected.
Our team at Artemis Hospital is here to assist with any specific vaccine needs based on your age, health conditions, and travel plans.
