Dr. Mahuya Sikdar is a Consultant Diabetologist based in West Bengal. After her MBBS from Nilratan Sircar Medical College in Kolkata (2004), she obtained a Diploma in Diabetes from VBU. She then completed a Fellowship in Diabetology (F. Diab) from the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation and Dr. Mohan’s Education Academy, recognised by the International Diabetes Federation, Belgium.
The Diphtheria, Polio, and Tetanus (DPT) vaccine is used to protect against three serious diseases:
Diphtheria: Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause severe respiratory problems, heart failure, and nerve damage. The disease is spread through coughing and sneezing. Diphtheria was once a leading cause of death among children, but the widespread use of vaccines has greatly reduced its incidence.
Polio: Polio is a viral infection that can cause paralysis, breathing difficulties, and death. The disease is spread through contaminated food and water or through contact with infected feces. Polio was once a major cause of paralysis and death in children, but the global effort to eradicate the disease through vaccination has been highly successful.
Tetanus: Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can cause muscle stiffness and spasms, which can be fatal if left untreated. The disease is caused by bacteria found in soil and animal feces that can enter the body through cuts or wounds. Vaccination against tetanus is important for anyone who may be at risk of injury or exposure to contaminated materials.
The DPT vaccine is typically given to infants and young children as part of routine immunization schedules. The recommended schedule for the DPT vaccine is: 5 doses of the vaccine given at 2, 4, and 6 months, and again at 15 through 18 months and 4 through 6 years of age. Booster doses are recommended every 10 years thereafter.
It's important to follow the recommended schedule and talk to a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine or the dosing schedule.
Most people experience long-term protection after finishing the course, but they should get a booster shot every 10 years to stay protected against tetanus.
The polio vaccine is used to prevent polio, a highly contagious viral disease that affects the nervous system and can cause paralysis, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, death. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the poliovirus, which provides protection against infection. There are two types of polio vaccines: the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and the oral polio vaccine (OPV). IPV is given as an injection, while OPV is given orally. Both vaccines are safe and highly effective in preventing polio, and are typically given to children as part of routine immunization schedules.
The dosage of the polio vaccine depends on the type of vaccine being used and the age of the person receiving it.
For the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), the standard dosage is 0.5 ml per injection. The vaccine is typically given as a series of four doses, with the first dose given at 2 months of age, the second dose at 4 months, the third dose at 6-18 months, and the fourth dose at 4-6 years of age.
For the oral polio vaccine (OPV), the dosage is typically 2 drops per dose. The vaccine is also given as a series of four doses, with the first dose given at 6-8 weeks of age, the second dose at 10-12 weeks, the third dose at 14-16 weeks, and the fourth dose at 6-18 months of age.
It's important to note that specific dosages and schedules may vary based on recommendations from health authorities and individual health conditions. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on the appropriate dosage and schedule for the polio vaccine.
The polio vaccine is highly effective at providing protection against the poliovirus. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) provides up to 100% protection after three doses, while the oral polio vaccine (OPV) provides up to 50% protection after one dose and higher levels of protection with multiple doses. The vaccine also provides herd immunity, protecting unvaccinated individuals when a high percentage of the population is vaccinated. Overall, regular vaccination is important for preventing polio and its severe consequences.
The DTP vaccine (also known as DPT vaccine) is a combination vaccine that is used to protect against three serious bacterial diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system, while tetanus is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes severe coughing spells.
The DTaP vaccine is typically given to infants and young children as a series of five injections. The vaccine provides protection against these three diseases by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off the bacteria that cause them.
In some countries, the DTaP vaccine has been replaced by the DTaP vaccine, which is a newer version of the vaccine that contains acellular pertussis components instead of whole-cell pertussis components, which may cause fewer side effects.
The vaccine is given in a series of three doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, followed by a booster dose at 16-18 months and a second booster at 5-6 years of age.
Each dose of the vaccine contains 0.5 ml of the vaccine, which is injected into the muscle of the thigh or upper arm of the child.
It is important to follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure that children receive the full protection of the vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis.
The DTaP vaccine provides protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough) and is highly effective. However, the level of immunity may vary from person to person and may decrease over time. Booster doses are recommended at specific intervals to maintain immunity.
The purpose of this vaccine is to provide protection against the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which can cause a liver infection. The vaccine contains a weakened or inactivated form of the virus, which triggers an immune response in the body to produce antibodies that can fight off future HAV infections.
The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, with up to 99% protection against the virus after completing the recommended dosing schedule. It is recommended for individuals who may be at higher risk for infection, such as travelers to areas with high rates of hepatitis A, people with chronic liver disease, men who have sex with men, people who use injection or non-injection drugs, and people who work with or come into contact with infected individuals or food/water contaminated with the virus.
The hepatitis A vaccine is typically given as a two-dose series, with the doses administered 6 months apart. For adults, the vaccine can also be given as a combined vaccine with the hepatitis B vaccine, called the hepatitis A and B combination vaccine. This vaccine is given as a three-dose series over a period of 6 months.
It's important to complete the full vaccine series to ensure optimal protection against hepatitis A.
The hepatitis A vaccine provides up to 99% protection against the hepatitis A virus after completing the recommended dosing schedule, which typically involves two doses given 6 months apart. A booster dose may be recommended after several years for individuals who remain at risk for HAV infection.
The purpose of this vaccine is to provide protection against the hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver damage, liver cancer, and even death in some cases. The vaccine works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, which can then recognize and fight off the virus if it enters the body in the future. The vaccine is typically given in a series of shots over a period of several months, and is recommended for all infants and children, as well as for adults who may be at risk of exposure to the virus.
The recommended schedule for the hepatitis B vaccine involves administering three doses. The first dose can be given at any time, with the second dose administered at least one month after the first dose, and the third dose given at least six months after the first dose, and at least two months after the second dose. In some cases, a different schedule may be used, and a higher or more frequent dosage may be recommended depending on the individual's circumstances.
The hepatitis B vaccine is an effective way to protect against the hepatitis B virus. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off the virus. Vaccinated individuals are protected against the disease, even if they are exposed to the virus years later. However, the vaccine is not 100% effective, and there is a slight risk of infection in rare cases. Nevertheless, getting vaccinated is still the best way to protect yourself from hepatitis B.
The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is used to protect against certain strains of HPV that can cause cancer, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and some forms of head and neck cancer. The vaccine is recommended for both males and females, starting at around age 11 or 12, although it can be given as early as age 9. The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, which is usually through sexual contact.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females. Dosage of the vaccine varies depending on the age at which it is given and the specific type of vaccine being used. For the 9-valent HPV vaccine, two or three doses are given depending on age at first vaccination, while for the bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines, three doses are recommended. It is important to follow the specific dosage recommendations given by your healthcare provider.
It is important to note that while the HPV vaccine provides protection against some strains of the virus, it does not protect against all strains. It is still important to practice safe sex, to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
It is recommended that individuals speak with their healthcare provider to determine if the HPV vaccine is right for them.
The typhoid vaccine is used to protect against typhoid fever, a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. The vaccine is recommended for individuals who are traveling to areas with a high risk of typhoid fever, as well as for individuals who may be at increased risk of exposure due to their occupation or living situation. There are two types of typhoid vaccines: an injectable vaccine and an oral vaccine.
The dosage of the typhoid vaccine depends on the type of vaccine. For the injectable vaccine, one dose is given as a single injection and a booster is recommended every 2-3 years. For the oral vaccine, a course of four capsules is given on alternate days for adults and children over 6 years of age, and a half dose for children aged 2-6 years. A booster is recommended every 5 years.
The typhoid vaccine can prevent the infection or reduce its severity. The level and duration of protection vary depending on the type of vaccine used and the individual's immune response. The vaccine doesn't provide 100% protection, so it's important to practice good hygiene and avoid contaminated food and water when traveling to areas where typhoid fever is common.
The rabies vaccine is used to prevent rabies, a viral disease spread through the bite of an infected animal. It triggers the body's immune system to produce antibodies that can neutralize the rabies virus. The vaccine is given to people at high risk of exposure, such as animal handlers and travelers to areas where rabies is common. It can also be given as part of post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent the onset of rabies after a bite by a suspected rabid animal. The vaccine is highly effective when given before or soon after exposure to the virus.
The dosage of the rabies vaccine varies depending on age, health status, and purpose of the vaccination. For pre-exposure prophylaxis, the standard schedule is 3 doses. For post-exposure prophylaxis, the recommended dosage is a series of 4 doses. Dosage may vary based on the specific situation and healthcare provider's recommendations.
The rabies vaccine provides protection against the rabies virus by triggering the body's immune system to produce antibodies. It's highly effective in preventing rabies if given before or soon after exposure. However, it takes time for the body to produce enough antibodies to fight the virus, and it's important to follow recommended post-exposure prophylaxis guidelines after a suspected bite.
This vaccine is used to prevent a viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes that can cause inflammation of the brain and be fatal. The vaccine triggers the body's immune system to produce antibodies. It's recommended for people traveling to or living in areas where the disease is common.
The dosage of the Japanese encephalitis vaccine typically involves a two-dose series given over a period of 28 days. The first dose is administered at least 28 days before potential exposure to the virus, and the second dose is given 28 days after the first dose. In some cases, a rapid schedule of the vaccine may be recommended for people who need to be protected quickly. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for specific recommendations regarding the Japanese encephalitis vaccine dosage.
The vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease in individuals who receive the full two-dose series before potential exposure to the virus. However, like any vaccine, it may not provide complete protection in every individual. It's still important to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, especially when traveling to or living in areas where the disease is common.
The flu vaccine is required because influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, which can lead to serious complications. The virus changes constantly, so a new vaccine is needed each year to provide protection against the most prevalent strains. The vaccine triggers the body's immune system to produce antibodies that can neutralize the virus. Everyone aged six months and older is recommended to get vaccinated, especially those at high risk for complications. Vaccination helps reduce the spread of the flu, protect vulnerable populations, and prevent serious illness.
The flu vaccine is usually given as a single injection in the arm or a nasal spray. The recommended dosage may vary depending on age, health status, and other factors. A standard dose is usually given for adults and children over six months old, and a high-dose vaccine may be recommended for individuals over 65 years or with certain medical conditions. Consult with a healthcare professional for specific recommendations.
The vaccine is designed to protect against the most prevalent strains of the virus each year, based on predictions by health experts. Although the vaccine may not provide 100% protection, it can reduce the risk of getting sick, as well as the severity of symptoms and complications if a person does get infected. Additionally, getting vaccinated can help reduce the spread of the flu to others who may be more vulnerable to complications.
This is a vaccine that is used to protect against pneumococcal disease, which is caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. This type of bacteria can cause a range of illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The PPSV-23 vaccine is designed to provide protection against 23 different types of pneumococcal bacteria. The vaccine is typically recommended for adults aged 65 years and older, as well as for people of any age who have certain medical conditions that put them at increased risk for pneumococcal disease, such as chronic heart, lung, or liver disease, diabetes, and weakened immune systems. The vaccine is given as a single injection and provides long-lasting protection against pneumococcal disease.
The dosage of the PPSV-23 (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) may vary depending on age, health status, and other factors. In general, the vaccine is administered as a single injection, with a recommended dose of 0.5 mL for adults and children aged 2 years and older. For adults aged 65 years and older or those with certain medical conditions, a second dose of the vaccine may be recommended after 5 years. It's important to consult with a healthcareprofessional for specific recommendations regarding the dosage of the PPSV-23 vaccine.
The PPSV-23 vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It provides protection against 23 different types of pneumococcal bacteria and works by triggering the immune system to produce antibodies. Vaccination can help reduce the risk of developing serious illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. It is generally recommended for adults aged 65 years and older, as well as for people with certain medical conditions.
This vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It is recommended for children and adults with certain medical conditions or risk factors. The vaccine contains a protein from the bacteria that is conjugated to a carrier protein to enhance the immune response. By triggering the body's immune system, the vaccine can help reduce the risk of developing serious illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections caused by the pneumococcal bacteria. PCV-13 is designed to protect against 13 different types of pneumococcal bacteria.
The PCV-13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) dosage depends on the age and health status of the person receiving the vaccine. For children, the vaccine is typically given in a series of four doses, and for adults with certain medical conditions or risk factors, a single dose may be recommended. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and schedule.
The vaccine triggers the body's immune response to produce antibodies that recognize and attack the bacteria. By doing so, it can help reduce the risk of developing serious illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections caused by these bacteria. Vaccination can also help prevent the spread of pneumococcal disease to others who may be at risk. While no vaccine is 100% effective, PCV-13 has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of pneumococcal disease and related complications.
Health Checks at Home