Preprint / Version 1

A Modern Perspective on Vaccinating Healthcare Service Providers in India: A Narrative Review

Authors

  • Mallavalli Surendranath Department of Pediatrics, Vijay Marie Hospital, Hyderabad, India
  • Ravi Wankhedkar World Medical Association and Sitaram Hospital, Dhule, India
  • Jayesh Lele National Hospital Board of India, Mumbai, India
  • Otavio Cintra Medical Affairs, GSK, São Paulo, Brazil
  • Shafi Kolhapure Medical Affairs, GSK, Mumbai, India
  • Ashish Agrawal Medical Affairs, GSK, Hyderabad, India
  • Pavitra Dewda Medical Affairs, GSK, Mumbai, India

Keywords:

Healthcare providers, India, Recommendations, Vaccination

Abstract

Healthcare providers (HCPs) are at increased risk of acquisition and transmission of infectious disease. Vaccinating HCPs is an essential preventive measure to protect them and their patients against communicable diseases, while positively and directly impacting the functioning of the healthcare system. In India, healthcare represents one of the largest employment sectors with 3.8 million HCPs; however, there is limited awareness of national immunisation guidelines for the Indian HCP population. Data from communicable disease outbreaks across India suggest inadequate vaccination rates amongst HCPs; studies have reported influenza and varicella vaccination rates as low as 4.4% and 16%, respectively. In this review, we discuss data highlighting the impact of insufficient vaccination coverage, barriers to vaccination, and the lack of immunisation guidelines amongst HCPs in India. COVID-19 vaccination programmes for HCPs have been critical in slowing the pandemic in India. This provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of vaccines amongst HCPs in India. Keywords: Healthcare providers, India, Recommendations, Vaccination

Author Biography

Pavitra Dewda, Medical Affairs, GSK, Mumbai, India

Vaccines Medical, No 252, Dr Annie Besant Rd, Worli Shivaji Nagar, Worli, Mumbai, 400018 Maharashtra India

Downloads