A survey conducted by The Association of Physicians in India (API) and Ipsos in 16 cities reveals low adoption of adult immunization among adults aged 50 and older, their caregivers, and doctors. The survey shows that although 71% of adults aged ≥50 years are aware of adult vaccination, only 16% have taken any adult vaccines. Patients and doctors have provided significantly different reasons for low adoption.
A survey of 90% of doctors found that lack of formal guidelines leads to a lack of interest and adoption of vaccination by patients. Doctors often hesitate to discuss adult vaccination due to time constraints and patients’ reluctance due to cost and treatment prioritization. Only 16% of adults aged 50 or older have been recommended for vaccination. A significant number of adults rely on their doctor’s recommendation, and many do not ask doctors about vaccination. To improve uptake, 55% of adult respondents and 48% of caregivers suggest measures like COVID-19 vaccination awareness. Dr. Navin Kumar Bansal, Consultant Physician & Diabetologist and also an Adult Immunisation Specialist, practising at CareVista& Apollo Sugars Clinic, Trinity Square, 2nd floor, Wireless, Beltola, Guwahati, said, “In addition, conversations about the dangers of vaccine-preventable diseases such as shingles will encourage more ageing adults to get vaccinated.”
