AS Malaysia's population shifts towards an ageing demographic, the importance of adult immunisation becomes increasingly apparent.
With necessary vaccinations, one can remain healthy and productive well into the golden years.
World Immunisation Week (April 24 -30) is marked globally to raise awareness of the health and socioeconomic impact of vaccination globally and to elevate the policy changes needed to create healthier, more resilient communities.
According to data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the number of individuals aged 65 years and above is on the rise with approximately 2.5 million people falling into this category.
In conjunction with World Immunisation Week 2024, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) organised a discourse bringing together local and global experts to share their perspectives on the changing vaccine landscape, the benefits of vaccines in older adults, and the socio-economic value of adult immunisation.
The event was supplemented by a local panel discussion which featured discussions, debates and knowledge-sharing about unlocking the power of vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) amongst Malaysian adults, key challenges faced by the healthcare industry, and opportunities to develop practical and impactful solutions in transitioning towards a healthier ageing society.
GSK Malaysia vaccines medical director Dr Thanabalan Fonseka, says childhood immunisation initiatives in schools and within communities are well-established with high coverage rates.
Contrary to this, the primary challenge surrounding adult vaccination lies in the prevailing lack of awareness on VPDs and their preventative options. "Consequently, many adults remain unaware of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations or may inadvertently overlook recommendations for booster shots or newly available vaccines later in life."
Moreover, logistical hurdles, such as limited access to healthcare services and financial constraints, further impede adult vaccination rates. Thus, there is an urgent need to elevate awareness, enhance accessibility, and underscore the significance of prioritising adult vaccinations to ensure comprehensive protection against preventable diseases throughout adulthood.
"We must move from sick care to true preventative healthcare and make adult immunisation the standard of care by building belief in the value of adult vaccinations amongst Malaysians," adds Dr Thanabalan.
Adult vaccinations are vaccines specifically recommended for individuals in adulthood to protect oneself against various vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs).
Common adult vaccinations include those for Covid-19, influenza, pneumococcal disease, herpes zoster, and respiratory syncytial virus.
The age group at risk for illnesses targeted by adult vaccination varies depending on the disease. However, generally, adults over the age of 50 are at increased risk of certain infectious diseases due to factors such as declining immune systems due to ageing, underlying health conditions, and decreased vaccine immunity over time.
It's important to note that while older adults are often at higher risk, certain diseases can affect adults of all ages.
Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications may be more vulnerable to infectious diseases regardless of age.