In a European comparison, the Austrians are hesitant to vaccinate. “Most programs focus on children,” criticizes the Austrian Association of Vaccine Manufacturers (ÖVIH). In particular, the corona pandemic has “drastically demonstrated how important vaccinations are not only for children but also for adults”. The ÖVIH is therefore committed to expanding current national vaccination strategies.
The subject of adult vaccinations will receive even more attention in the coming years, as pharmaceutical companies research and develop many new vaccines, most of which are intended for adults, the ÖVIH emphasized.
Many of these should also provide protection against diseases for which there were no vaccines in the future. Research and development is in many cases well advanced. If development continues at this rate, these vaccines will be available in the foreseeable future, the association said.
100 vaccines currently in development
According to the European umbrella organization Vaccines Europe, 100 vaccines are currently under research and development, of which 81 are intended for adults. Of these, 27 are potential new Covid-19 vaccines, there are also ten candidate vaccines against the RS virus and nine candidates that focus on seasonal flu.
EU comparison: Austria far behind
The background is also that the Austrians are a real vaccination mafia compared to other European countries. Comparing the results of the individual EU Member States, Austria ranks 19th in the Austrian general population (out of 27) and workers in the health sector even come second last (26 out of 27). “This is a result that should certainly make us think,” says ÖVIH president Renée Gallo-Daniel. “Especially that with healthcare workers.”
Corona: disastrous consequences for the quality of life
The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that infectious diseases have a disastrous impact on adult health, quality of life and mortality, and can negatively impact the functioning of health systems and the economy. “In Austria we have an excellent vaccination program for children, but there is no concept for the adult vaccinations recommended in the national vaccination plan. Urgent action is needed here,” said Gallo-Daniel.
Aging population
One of the reasons is the aging of the population. In 2025, people over 50 will make up 50% of the population of the European Union. This is precisely the group whose immune system function begins to deteriorate, making them more susceptible to infectious diseases. With increasing age, the prevalence of chronic diseases also increases, leading to a higher risk of complications and vaccine-preventable diseases with further consequences for the quality of life and independence of those affected, the ÖVIH stressed.
Worldwide, 700,000 deaths a year due to antibiotic resistance
In addition, around 700,000 people worldwide die each year as a result of antibiotic resistance to bacteria and other pathogens. Without appropriate measures, this number could rise to ten million people per year by 2050. Vaccines can prevent infections here.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
