Polish Health Authorities Urge Adults to Check Vaccination Status and Get Vaccinated

Polish health authorities are encouraging adults to check their vaccination calendar and get vaccinated if needed, according to the PAP news agency on April 25, 2024. Vaccination is an important preventive care measure that can protect against serious diseases, as immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time.

Experts stress that vaccines have saved many lives, but serious diseases are still a threat. Getting vaccinated can protect both the individual and their loved ones. Adults should receive certain vaccines like the tetanus booster every 10 years, the pneumococcal vaccine to protect against severe pneumonia, and the shingles vaccine.

Why this matters: As the global population rapidly ages, filling gaps in adult immunization programs can lead to huge savings in healthcare budgets. Preventable lower respiratory infections like influenza, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus contribute to a significant number of deaths in the over 60s population.

Vaccine safety is a high priority, with mild side effects being the most common. Certain vaccines may also be required for school, work, travel, and other activities. Health authorities are stressing the importance of staying up to date on recommended vaccinations, especially for children, to develop stronger and safer communities.

Effective childhood vaccination programs have prevented many diseases, but in older populations with waning immunity, many are still exposed. "The narrative needs to change in terms of investment, and immunization should be part of a health prevention promotion package," experts say. Across various countries, adult vaccination programs could return up to 19 times their initial investment in productivity and reduced healthcare costs. However, awareness of which adult vaccines to recommend is low among healthcare providers in some regions, and investment in immunization remains low in many countries.

Key Takeaways

• Polish authorities urge adults to check vaccination status and get vaccinated if needed.
• Vaccines protect against serious diseases, but immunity can wane over time.
• Adult vaccination programs can lead to significant healthcare cost savings.
• Certain adult vaccines, like tetanus, pneumococcal, and shingles, are recommended.
• Awareness of adult vaccination recommendations is low among healthcare providers in some regions.