When formulating vaccine policy

An expert committee headed by Dr. B Iqbal has submitted a draft report on the government's vaccination policy. The report submitted to Health Minister Veena George has several recommendations such as annual flu vaccine for those above 65 years of age, vaccination card for all and assessment of vaccination status at school admission.

By following the example of developed countries, the committee recommended that everyone over the age of 65 should be given the vaccine every year. The flu vaccine is recommended for senior citizens due to the increased incidence of respiratory infections and influenza in the new situation. After further discussions with experts, the government will decide on the recommendations that need to be implemented.

A comprehensive health plan should be formulated in coordination with various government departments before announcing the vaccine policy. The purity of water and hygiene should be given utmost importance in this. This requires the coordination of various departments. Even garbage disposal should become a part of this. Preventive vaccines are now of great importance to prevent disease before it occurs. Many diseases can be prevented by making changes in lifestyle and hygiene. Many diseases can be brought under control if there is a system for the proper disposal of waste. Many dangerous diseases have been brought under control and largely eradicated in the world with the help of vaccines. Vaccines are mainly used to prevent infectious diseases. Along with this, the government should also create awareness that the vaccine is only a preventive measure and that one can contract the disease even after taking a vaccine. If not, false propaganda will be carried out against the vaccine. The government should also take precautions and preparations against this along with the announcement of the vaccine policy.

Post-Covid, vaccine manufacturing and sales have become big businesses worldwide. Therefore, if possible, we should prefer to buy vaccines manufactured in our country. Vaccine manufacturing units can be set up under the leadership of the Virology Institute. It would be good if the government makes efforts to complete the distribution of the vaccine by collaborating with the private sector, just like it did in the case of the covid vaccine. The government can also charge for vaccinations from those who are willing to pay. At the same time, it should never deny vaccines to those who seek free vaccination.

Recommendations such as vaccinating children in areas with high levels of rabies infection, and vaccinating pregnant women to reduce the risk of death from H1N1 disease are generally welcome. The government should make a final announcement of the vaccine policy only after a detailed discussion, as it could spark controversy.