March 16 is National Vaccination Day, 2023

Introduction 

March 16 is celebrated as National Vaccination Day every year to emphasise the significance of vaccination in safeguarding public health. On March 16, 1995, the first dose of the oral polio vaccine was administered in India. Immunisation or vaccination is the most efficacious way to prevent the spread of extremely contagious illnesses.

To recognize and commend the tireless efforts of frontline healthcare workers in ensuring immunisation for every child, the Indian Government designates March 16 as National Vaccination Day. The theme for National Vaccination Day 2

In this blog, we will learn more about vaccination and its importance. So please keep reading.

What is vaccination?

Vaccination is an effective way of protecting the body against harmful diseases before coming in contact with them. Vaccination uses the immune system, which is the natural defence of the body, to create immunity against certain infections by strengthening your immune system.

What is the mechanism of action of a vaccine?

Vaccines help lower the chances of getting a disease by working with your body’s natural defences to create protection. A vaccine works by the following mechanism, 

When a person receives a vaccine, the immune system springs into action by identifying the invading germ and generating antibodies to combat the illness. The immune system also remembers the invading germ, the disease and how to fight it. This helps the immune system again in acting against the disease and destroying the invading germ if the person comes into contact with the germ in the future.

Why is vaccination important?

There are various reasons for getting vaccinated. Some of these important reasons include the following,

Safeguarding the life of your child: Due to the progress made in the field of medical science, there are now more ways to safeguard children against diseases than ever before. Certain illnesses that were once responsible for causing severe harm or fatalities in numerous children have been entirely eradicated, while others are on the verge of being eliminated. This progress can be mainly attributed to the availability of secure and efficient vaccines.

It is safe and effective: Before administering vaccines to children, extensive and meticulous evaluations are conducted by healthcare professionals, scientists, and doctors. Although administering vaccines may cause slight discomfort, such as pain, redness, or tenderness at the injection site, this is minimal compared to the suffering, unease, and distress caused by the diseases these vaccines are designed to prevent. While severe side effects following vaccination, such as a severe allergic reaction, are rare, the disease-prevention benefits of vaccines outweigh the potential adverse effects for almost all children.

Safeguarding the future generation: Vaccines have been incredibly effective in reducing and sometimes eliminating diseases that caused severe disability or death in past generations. For instance, smallpox vaccination played a significant role in eradicating the disease globally, which means that smallpox shots are no longer required for children because the disease no longer exists. Rubella, commonly known as German measles, can be transmitted from pregnant women to their foetuses or newborn, leading to severe birth defects. However, by vaccinating children against rubella, the risk of transmission has significantly decreased.

Did you know?

According to the World Health Organization,

At present, vaccines are available to prevent over 20 serious and potentially fatal illnesses, which can benefit individuals of all ages by improving their overall health and extending their lifespans. Immunisation has played a crucial role in preventing 3.5-5 million deaths annually, particularly from life-threatening diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), influenza, and measles.

Conclusion

Prevention is better than cure

Vaccination is a vital aspect of preventive healthcare that protects individuals from various infectious diseases. Vaccination benefits not only the individual who receives it but also the community as a whole by reducing the spread of contagious diseases. It is important to raise awareness about the significance of vaccination among family and friends as they play a crucial role in supporting and encouraging vaccination practices. This National Vaccination Day 2023, let us create awareness by educating ourselves and those around us about the benefits of vaccination to help prevent the spread of preventable diseases.

Ayu Health is a leading healthcare provider committed to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities through quality healthcare services. We offer a wide range of services, including vaccination, at affordable costs to ensure everyone can access the necessary preventive measures.

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