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Adult respiratory vaccination in the Indian armed forces: Uptake, awareness, and opportunities for policy reform

Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Immunisation reduces morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). While childhood vaccination in India has improved, adult immunisation remains insufficient, especially among individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We aimed to evaluate vaccination coverage, awareness, and influencing factors among adults in a tertiary Armed Forces hospital. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from April 2024 to April 2025 at an adult immunisation clinic in a tertiary Armed Forces hospital. Data from 2,645 adults were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to assess vaccine uptake and its association with demographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: Among 2645 participants, 57.3% were male. Influenza (45%) and pneumococcal (47%) vaccines were most administered. Herpes zoster and Tdap vaccines had lower uptake (5.7% and 1.5%, respectively). Uptake was highest in those aged 60-70 years. Awareness of adult vaccination was noted in 24.56% and was significantly associated with higher uptake (P < 0.001). Prior hospitalisation also positively influenced vaccine acceptance (P = 0.02). Adverse events were predominantly mild (pain, swelling, fever) and showed no significant variation between vaccines. CONCLUSION: Adult respiratory vaccination coverage remains suboptimal despite moderate influenza and pneumococcal uptake. Awareness and prior healthcare interactions significantly influence uptake. National adult immunisation strategies are urgently needed.
Source: Lung India
DOI: 10.4103/lungindia.lungindia_418_25
Authors: Manu Chopra, Shemsya Shajahan, Kiran Jagtap, Rahul Tyagi, Kislay Kishore, Aseem Yadav, Srishti Tripathi
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7130845293
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Cites: 6
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