Adult Vaccination

The Adult Vaccination course is divided into six in-depth units, each focusing on different vaccines essential for adult health and well-being.

Unit 1: Influenza Vaccines
This unit explains the importance of annual flu vaccinations, detailing the different types available, including standard dose, high-dose, adjuvanted, and live attenuated vaccines. It discusses which populations benefit from each type, particularly for those aged 65 and above, who require stronger immune responses to prevent complications. The unit also covers quadrivalent and trivalent vaccines and their effectiveness.

Unit 2: Pneumococcal Vaccines
Pneumococcal vaccines protect against severe infections such as pneumonia and invasive diseases like meningitis and sepsis. This unit outlines the two main types of vaccines: the polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines. It explains the recommended schedules for adults, especially those over 65 or with high-risk conditions, and highlights the importance of these vaccines in preventing severe illness.

Unit 3: Shingles Vaccines
Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can lead to painful rashes and long-term complications like postherpetic neuralgia. This unit covers both the older live attenuated vaccine and the newer subunit recombinant vaccine, explaining their efficacy, side effects, and recommendations for preventing shingles in adults, especially those aged 50 and older.

Unit 4: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccines
This unit covers combination vaccines that protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. It discusses vaccination schedules, especially for pregnant women, who need protection to pass on immunity to their newborns. It also highlights the importance of booster shots every 10 years to maintain protection in adults.

Unit 5: Vaccines in Special Circumstances
This unit addresses vaccines needed by adults in specific situations or those at high risk. It covers hepatitis A and B, HPV, and meningococcal vaccines, detailing the indications for each based on personal risk factors such as chronic diseases, travel, or lifestyle. It also provides guidance on handling non-responders to the hepatitis B vaccine.

Unit 6: COVID-19 Vaccines
The final unit focuses on COVID-19 vaccines, explaining the different vaccine types, including mRNA, vector-based, and inactivated vaccines. It provides insights into vaccine efficacy, booster recommendations, and side effects. The unit also discusses ongoing research into variant protection and the importance of vaccinating vulnerable populations.

This course provides healthcare professionals with a solid understanding of adult vaccination protocols, enabling them to make informed decisions and advocate for adult immunisation in clinical practice.