Vaccines are given to protect us against infections. In general vaccines are given to children to stimulate their bodies to produce antibodies against bacteria and viruses which fight and prevent infections. But, adults too need protection against several infections like tetanus, measles, german measles, hepatitis, influenza, pneumococcus, typhoid and chicken pox. Each vaccine targets a specific infection and stimulates the body’s immune response.

Even though most vaccines are given in childhood, some of them need booster doses to effectively keep the body immunity working (eg. Tetanus). Some vaccines are meant only for adults (eg. Meningococcus, typhoid, pneumococcus). Moreover some new vaccines are available in the last few years only, which can help protect adults (eg. Shingles or zoster vaccine, cervical cancer vaccine).

There are no mandatory vaccines for adults. Several vaccines are generally recommended for teens and adults. Vaccines are also recommended based on the age (Flu, cervical cancer vaccine, pneumococcus), health factors (hepatitis A, Influenza), lifestyle factors (hepatitis A & B, tetanus, typhoid, chicken pox) or occupational factors (MMR, Influenza, hepatitis B). The only vaccine legally mandated for travel to endemic areas is the yellow fever vaccine.

All vaccines can be life saving because most diseases they protect against can be fatal especially in adults. Diseases also can cause significant morbidity, result in time lost at work or from college, lead to expenditure on hospitalization & treatment and in some cases highly contagious diseases like chicken pox can spread rapidly in the community.

For some vaccines like mumps and german measles, a single shot gives lifelong immunity. For others, a course of 2 -3 injections over several months gives lifelong protection (hepatitis A, Chicken pox). Some vaccines may require periodic boosters (tetanus).

Vaccines can be given to primarily prevent diseases or prevent a person from developing an infection after a person is exposed to an infected patient (post-exposure prophylaxis). The efficacy of a post-exposure vaccine depends on the incubation period of the infection. In general, the sooner after exposure a vaccine is taken, the better.

No vaccine can give 100% protection. In general the protective response is over 90%.

Vaccines are to be avoided if there is a history of allergy to the specific vaccine or to eggs (for certain vaccines). A proper history is essential to decide which vaccines are indicated or contra-indicared. Vaccines are postponed if the person has an active infection or high fever.

Usually only childhood vaccines cause fever. Most adult vaccines can cause a sore arm or rarely low grade fever.

Protection against infections would include a healthy lifestyle including a well balanced diet, exercise, adequate sleep, avoiding smoking, and taking alcohol in moderation.

The cost may vary from Rs 100 to about Rs 1500.

Unless you come to contact with patients who suffer from infections like chicken pox, measles and tuberculosis, just a short visit is not dangerous.

Yes, infact, most infections are commoner in tropical countries.

Typhoid, hepatitis A & B, chicken pox, meningococcus, pneumococcus, influenza, tetanus etc.

Absolutely, most vaccines are for endemic infections in India.