Revising Armed Forces Immunization Policy: Addressing Vaccine Gaps and Special Circumstances
This document critiques the current immunization policy for Armed Forces personnel, highlighting gaps such as the absence of a clear policy for special circumstances and the status of vaccines outside the Universal Immunization Program (UIP). It proposes the introduction of new vaccines including MMR, quadrivalent, pentavalent (containing HiB), Typhoid, and Hepatitis B. The need for an updated immunization schedule for children entitled to medical care in the Armed Forces is emphasized, promoting acknowledgment of optional non-UIP vaccines and the establishment of protocols for adverse events following immunization (AEFI).
Revising Armed Forces Immunization Policy: Addressing Vaccine Gaps and Special Circumstances
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Presentation Transcript
Armed Forces Immunization Policy: Quo Vadis? Surg Cdr RW Thergaonkar
Present Policy • UIP vaccines from local SHO • No stated policy for immunization in special circumstances • Status of vaccines outside UIP unclear • No official immunization schedule
Proposal • To introduce MMR, quadri/pentavalent (HiB containing) Typhoid and Hep B vaccines • To promulgate a policy for vaccines under special circumstances • Non UIP vaccines to be acknowledged as optional • To prepare an amended immunization schedule for children entitled to medical care in the Armed Forces
1. Introduction of New Vaccines Issues • Pentavalent v/s standalone DPT, Hep B & HiB vaccines • Pentavalent alone or mixed pentavalent/quadrivalent • Adolescent stand-alone Rubella v/s MMR • ? MR Vaccination
3 Status of Non UIP Vaccines Pediatrician’s Perspective • Available in market, FDA Approved • Pressure from parents • Do we look obsolete vis-à-vis private practitioners? Public Health Perspective • Nation-wide implementation • Responsibility for AEFI’s • “I buy, you give” not an option
4 Revised Immunization Schedule Program Issues • All pentavalent have been suggested If so, • Hep B at 6 months is out • Hep B at birth? • Pentavalent again at 18 months? • Can the visits at 15 & 18 months? • Why not Japanese Encephalitits? • What about vit A? • Discordance with national program