As Malaysia’s population trends towards an ageing demographic, the critical role of adult immunization is increasingly evident. Ensuring that adults receive essential vaccinations helps them remain active contributors to society and the economy. This contributes to prolonged productivity, sustained economic engagement, and reduced healthcare expenditures as they age.
GSK Highlights Importance of Adult Immunisation
During World Immunisation Week, observed from April 24 to April 30, there is a heightened focus on the health and economic benefits of vaccination worldwide. This period serves as an opportunity to promote necessary policy enhancements aimed at fostering healthier, more resilient communities, with a particular emphasis on Malaysia.
Recent statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) indicate a significant rise in the population aged 65 and above, now at about 2.5 million. Projections suggest that by 2040, the elderly will constitute a nearly equal percentage of the population as the youth, with the older age group expected to surpass 6 million, marking Malaysia’s transition to an aged society.
In alignment with World Immunisation Week 2024, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) hosted a crucial forum that convened experts both locally and internationally to discuss the evolving landscape of vaccines, particularly the benefits and socio-economic importance of adult immunisation. especially among older adults.
The event included a local panel discussion featuring vibrant debates and rich exchanges of ideas on the power of prevention against vaccine-preventable diseases among Malaysian adults. It also addressed the challenges within the healthcare sector and explored opportunities for developing effective solutions to support a healthier ageing population in Malaysia.
Dr. Thanabalan Fonseka, GSK Malaysia’s Vaccines Medical Director, emphasized the disparity between established childhood immunization programs and adult vaccination efforts, which are hindered by a widespread lack of awareness about vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and available preventive measures. Many adults, as a result, may not stay current with vaccinations or may miss out on recommendations for booster shots or new vaccines as they age.
Logistical challenges, including limited access to healthcare services and economic barriers, further complicate the accessibility of adult vaccinations. Dr. Fonseka stressed the urgent need to enhance awareness, improve access, and emphasize the importance of prioritizing adult vaccinations to provide comprehensive protection throughout adulthood. He advocated for a shift from reactive to proactive healthcare, aiming to establish adult immunization as a standard practice in Malaysia by building trust in the value of adult vaccines.
What is Adult Immunisation?
Adult vaccinations are vaccines specifically recommended for individuals in adulthood to protect oneself against various vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Most common adult vaccinations include COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal disease, herpes zoster, and respiratory syncytial virus amongst others.
Who is at Risk?
The age group at risk for various illnesses targeted by adult vaccinations varies depending on the disease. However, generally, adults over the age of 50 are at increased risk for certain infectious diseases due to factors such as declining immune systems due to ageing, underlying health conditions, and decreased vaccine immunity over time. It’s important to note that while older adults are often at higher risk, certain diseases can affect adults of all ages. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications may be more vulnerable to infectious diseases regardless of age.
During World Immunisation Week, GSK aims to underscore the comprehensive benefits of adult immunization, which include health, structural, and socioeconomic improvements globally. In collaboration with various industry stakeholders, GSK supports the World Health Organization’s Expanded Programme on Immunization to maximize the life-saving potential of vaccines.
GSK is committed to the prevention-focused approach in healthcare. With an extensive global vaccine portfolio, the company is dedicated to protecting people of all ages, advocating for policy advancements, and continuing its efforts to enhance public health in Malaysia.
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