Introduction
Until a few years ago, it was common in many homes that the child would get sick with fever, cough or rashes on the body and the parents would stay awake at night and pray. Even today there are many diseases that can prove to be fatal, but the difference is that we have a tried, safe and easy way to prevent them, and that is.
Vaccines are among the most successful inventions in the history of medicine. A dangerous disease like smallpox, which took millions of lives for centuries, has been eradicated from the world thanks to vaccines. Polio has also been eradicated from most parts of the world. Diseases like measles, diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus have also decreased in these areas. Where the vaccination rate is good.
In this guide, we will understand in simple Urdu what a vaccine is, how it works, what are its types, what is the vaccination schedule for children and adults, and for what purpose Boostrix is used. We will also see what a COVID-19 vaccination card is, how to get a vaccination certificate, and how to keep your vaccine record (“my vaccine” record) safe.
Note: This article is for general information only. Every person’s health, age, and medical history are different, so be sure to consult your physician or authorized vaccination center before getting vaccinated.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is a Vaccine and How Does It Work?
- Types of Vaccines
- Benefits of Vaccination
- Childhood Vaccination Schedule
- Adult Vaccination Schedule
- What Is Boostrix Used For?
- Vaccines During Pregnancy
- COVID-19 Vaccination Card
- Vaccination Certification and Vaccine Certification
- My Vaccine: How to Keep Your Records Safe
- Vaccine Side Effects and Safety
- Common Myths vs Facts
- Travel Vaccines
- Practical Tips for Parents
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
What Is a Vaccine and How Does It Work?
A vaccine is a drug that pre-trains the body’s natural defense system, i.e. the immune system, to fight a particular disease. Let’s take a simple example: Suppose a country’s army is told in advance about the enemy’s image, its weapons and tactics. When the real enemy attacks, the army will recognize and immediately fight back. This is exactly what the vaccine does.
How does the vaccine work?
- The vaccine contains the weakened or dead part of the germ, any of its proteins, or the instructions for making that protein.
- The body reacts by treating it as an “alien.”
- The immune system makes antibodies and produces memory cells.
- These cells remember the pathogens of the disease.
- If there is an attack of the original germ in the future, the body responds quickly. The disease is either mild or non-existent.
What is Herd Immunity?
When most of the people of a community get vaccinated, the chain of spread of the disease is broken. The benefit also extends to those who cannot be vaccinated for a medical reason, such as newborns or patients with weakened immune systems. This is called herd immunity or herd protection. Your vaccine not only protects you, it also protects the vulnerable people around you.
Types of Vaccines
Vaccines used in the world are made in different ways. Each method has its own advantages and limitations. See the main types and examples in the table below.
| Vaccine Type | How It Works | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Live-attenuated | Uses a weakened form of the germ | MMR, Measles-Rubella, Oral Polio (OPV), BCG, Rotavirus |
| Inactivated | Uses a killed germ | Injectable Polio (IPV), Hepatitis A, Rabies |
| Subunit / Conjugate | Uses only a specific piece of the germ | Hepatitis B, HPV, Pneumococcal, Hib, Typhoid conjugate |
| Toxoid | Uses an inactivated toxin made by the germ | Tetanus, Diphtheria (part of DTP, Tdap, Boostrix) |
| mRNA | Gives instructions to cells to make a harmless protein | Some COVID-19 vaccines |
| Viral vector | Uses a harmless virus to deliver instructions | Some COVID-19 and Ebola vaccines |
| or | Uses a harmless virus to deliver instructions | Some COVID-19 and Ebola vaccines |
1: live attenuated vaccine
The bacteria live in them but are so weak that the disease cannot spread. They provide strong and long-lasting protection. However, the vaccine is not given to people with severely weakened immune systems and, in some cases, pregnant women. A doctor’s advice is needed.
2: Inactivated vaccines (inactivated)
They are sterilized, so they are generally considered safer. However, their effect sometimes decreases over time, so booster doses may be needed.
3: The Toxoid Vaccine
The bacteria of tetanus and diphtheria cause harm through the toxin produced by them. The toxoid vaccine contains a harmless form of the same poison. body to make antibodies against it. Boostrix is a vaccine of the same family.
4: mRNA and viral vector vaccines.
This is a relatively new technology that has been widely used in the times of COVID-19. They send a message to the body to recognize a specific protein of the virus and develop a defense against it. These vaccines do not spread the disease.
5: live attenuated vaccine
The bacteria live in them but are so weak that the disease cannot spread. They provide strong and long-lasting protection. However, the vaccine is not given to people with severely weakened immune systems and, in some cases, pregnant women. A doctor’s advice is needed.
6: Inactivated vaccines (inactivated)
They are sterilized, so they are generally considered safer. However, their effect sometimes decreases over time, so booster doses may be needed.
7: The Toxoid Vaccine
The bacteria of tetanus and diphtheria cause harm through the toxin produced by them. The toxoid vaccine contains a harmless form of the same poison. body to make antibodies against it. Boostrix is a vaccine of the same family.
8: mRNA and viral vector vaccines.
This is a relatively new technology that has been widely used in the times of COVID-19. They send a message to the body to recognize a specific protein of the virus and develop a defense against it. These vaccines do not spread the disease.
Benefits of VaccinationProtect from deadly diseases
1: Protect from deadly diseases
The biggest advantage of the vaccine is that it protects against many dangerous diseases, such as polio, measles, whooping cough, tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis B, pneumonia and typhoid.
2: Decrease in the severity of the disease
No vaccine gives a 100% guarantee, but if someone gets sick after being vaccinated, it is usually much less severe. The risk of hospitalization and complications is also reduced.
3: Economic savings.
Treatment of illness, hospital expenses and holidays from work, everything is expensive. Vaccines are generally much cheaper than treatment, and basic childhood vaccines in Pakistan are available free of charge at government centers.
4: Protecting future generations
When a generation gets vaccinated, diseases become weaker. The next generation can only be free from the fear of these diseases, like the one caused by smallpox.
5: Protecting the vulnerable
The elderly, pregnant women, chronic patients and young children are more susceptible to infection. The circle of vaccinated people around them protects them.
6: Helps prevent cancer
The HPV vaccine reduces the risk of many cancers, including cervical cancer. Hepatitis B vaccine reduces the risk of liver cancer.
Childhood Vaccination Schedule
There is a fixed schedule for vaccination of children. It is very important to complete it on time. The reason is that the immune system of newborns is still fragile and some diseases cause them the most damage in the early months.
A general schedule is provided below. Each country’s national program (such as the EPI in Pakistan) makes slight differences in vaccines and their timing according to its structure. Be sure to get certified information about the schedule that applies in your area from your nearest EPI center or pediatrician.
| Age | Common Vaccines |
|---|---|
| At Birth | BCG, Oral Polio (OPV 0), Hepatitis B (birth dose where offered) |
| 6 Weeks | OPV, Pentavalent (DPT-HepB-Hib), Pneumococcal (PCV), Rotavirus |
| 10 Weeks | OPV, Pentavalent, Pneumococcal, Rotavirus |
| 14 Weeks | OPV, Pentavalent, Pneumococcal, Injectable Polio (IPV) |
| 9 Months | Measles-Rubella (MR), Typhoid conjugate (where included) |
| 15 Months | Measles-Rubella (second dose) |
| 4–6 Years | Boosters such as DTP / Tdap, polio, MMR as per local schedule |
| 9–14 Years | HPV (where available), Tdap booster at 11–12 years in many schedules |
A few key points
- Timeliness: Each dose should be taken at the same time. If a dose is missed, there is no need to restart, the doctor makes a “catch-up schedule.”
- Mild fever is common: There may be a mild fever or pain at the site after the injection, which usually resolves in a couple of days.
- Carry a vaccination card: The child’s card is useful for school admission, travel and hospitalization.
- In the case of a sick child: A mild cough can often be vaccinated, but in case of high fever or severe illness, ask the doctor.
Adult Vaccination Schedule
Generally, people think that vaccines are only for children, although adults also need certain vaccines. The effectiveness of many childhood vaccines wanes over time, and new risks arise as we age or with certain diseases.
| Vaccine | Who Needs It | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Tdap / Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) | All adults | Tdap once, then Td or Tdap booster every 10 years |
| Influenza (Flu) | Adults, especially elderly, pregnant women, chronic patients | Every year |
| COVID-19 | Adults, as per current national guidance | As recommended by health authorities |
| Hepatitis B | Healthcare workers, diabetics, unvaccinated adults | 3-dose series |
| Pneumococcal | Adults 65+ and those with chronic conditions | As per doctor’s advice |
| Zoster (Shingles) | Adults 50+ in many guidelines | 2 doses |
| MMR | Adults without evidence of immunity | 1–2 doses |
| HPV | Young adults up to the age recommended by local guidelines | 2–3 doses |
| Typhoid | Adults in high-risk areas or travelers | As per vaccine type |
A few guidelines for adults.
- Patients with diabetes, heart, lung, or kidney disease: They need flu and pneumonia vaccines.
- Health care workers: The hepatitis B vaccine is the primary protection for them.
- Elderly people: The immune system weakens with age, so make a complete protection program with the advice of a doctor.
What Is Boostrix Used For?
“What is Boostrix used for” is the question of many people, especially pregnant women and parents of school-going children.
Boostrix is a Tdap vaccine, i.e. it is a booster dose for the prevention of three diseases:
- T-Tetanus (Tetanus) is a bacterium that enters through a wound and causes severe muscle spasms.
- Diphtheria is a dangerous disease affecting the throat and respiratory tract.
- Acellular pertussis (whooping cough) is a long and severe cough that can be life-threatening for young children.
When and to whom is Boostrix given?
The vaccine is generally intended for those who have received early childhood doses and need a booster. The age limit may vary depending on the country, for example, in many countries it is approved for ages 4 years or above 10 years. Common uses include the following:
- Boosters for children and adolescents: as a reminder on the waning effect of childhood vaccines.
- Boosters for adults: Especially for those who did not take Tdap when they grew up.
- During Pregnancy: According to the guidelines of many countries, Tdap is usually given in the early part of the third trimester (approximately between 27 and 36 weeks) in every pregnancy. So that the antibodies made by the mother can give initial protection to the newborn from whooping cough.
- In wound management: In case of a deep or dirty wound, the doctor may prescribe a booster to prevent scarring.
- People who live close to the newborn: Parents, grandparents, and child care providers may be advised by a doctor to get a booster.
Who should be careful or consult a doctor.
- Those who have had a severe allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its components in the past.
- Those who have had a mental or neurological problem within seven days after a previous DTP / Tdap dose.
- Those who have high fever or severe disease at the time of vaccination.
- Those who have a history of severe reactions (such as Guillain-Barré syndrome) after such a vaccine in the past, the doctor will compare the risk and benefit.
Possible side effects
Common side effects include pain at the injection site, redness or swelling, fatigue, mild fever, headache, and body aches. They usually heal on their own within a few days. Severe allergies are very rare, and if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or dizziness immediately after the injection, seek medical attention.
Vaccines During Pregnancy
Vaccination during pregnancy is important for the safety of both mother and child. Some infections in pregnant women, such as flu and Covid, can be more severe. At the same time, in the early months after birth, the baby is not yet fully vaccinated, so the antibodies transmitted from the mother become his first protective shield.
| Vaccine | During Pregnancy? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tdap (Boostrix or similar) | Recommended | Usually given between 27–36 weeks of each pregnancy |
| Influenza (inactivated) | Recommended | Any trimester during flu season |
| COVID-19 | Generally recommended per local guidance | Consult your doctor |
| Tetanus toxoid | Recommended in many programs | Protects mother and newborn |
| MMR, Varicella | Not given during pregnancy | Live vaccines; ideally before conception |
Get every vaccine of pregnancy with the advice of the doctor or gynecologist only. If you’re planning a pregnancy, it’s best to review your vaccine record in advance.
COVID-19 Vaccination Card
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a new word came to every language, COVID-19 vaccination card.
What’s a COVID-19 vaccination?
This is a paper or digital record that lists:
- Your name and date of birth
- The name of the vaccine and the manufacturer
- The history of each food
- a lot of numbers
- Details of the centre or person to be vaccinated
Why is it important to have this card?
- Proof: An official record of when and what you were vaccinated.
- Booster planning: Determining the time and type of booster is easier with the same record.
- Travel: In some countries, proof of vaccination may be asked for in entry or airline requirements.
- Employment and education: Vaccination documents are required in some institutions.
What to do if you lose your card?
- The centre from which the vaccine was administered Get in touch there.
- Visit the official vaccine registry portal of your country or province.
- The record of Covid vaccination in Pakistan was kept by the national system NIMS and the certificates have been obtained through the portal or app linked to NADRA. The procedure and the current address of the portal may change, so seek updates from the official website or helpline.
- Keep a photo or scan of your vaccine details on your phone.
Security advice
Don’t share your photo on social media. It contains your name, date of birth, and other personal information that could be used for fraud or identity theft.
Vaccination Certification and Vaccine Certification
“Vaccination certification” and “vaccine certification” are used in the same sense. It is a certified document that proves that you have taken a particular vaccine.
Where does this certificate come from?
- International Travel: Certain vaccines are required for entry into certain countries. For example, a certificate of yellow fever vaccination, or proof of the required vaccines for Hajj and Umrah.
- Educational institutions: Vaccination records are sometimes asked for when entering a school or university.
- Employment: Proof of vaccination may be required in the health sector, aviation and certain industries.
- Medical records: During treatment in the hospital, the doctor needs details of past vaccinations.
How to get a certificate?
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Get vaccinated at an authorized center or hospital |
| 2 | Ask for the vaccination card or certificate right after the shot |
| 3 | Check that your name, date of birth, vaccine name, and date are correct |
| 4 | Make sure the doctor’s or center’s stamp or signature is present |
| 5 | Keep a photo or scan as a digital backup |
| 6 | If needed, use your country’s official portal to download a digital certificate |
Stay away from fake certificates
Making or using a fake vaccine certificate is a legal offence. It also doesn’t provide real protection and can cause serious problems when caught travelling or on the job. Always get the original vaccine from the authorized centers only and get the original records.
It’s important for international travel.
Before traveling, confirm with the official website or embassy of the destination country which vaccines are mandatory or recommended. It is usually best to contact the travel clinic at least 4 to 6 weeks before the trip if needed. to show the effect of the vaccine.
My Vaccine: How to Keep Your Records Safe
Many people forget their vaccination history. This is a common problem that can cause problems later on. If you have stored the “my vaccine” record in one place, it is very easy to travel, work, pregnancy or emergency.
What’s in a vaccine record?
| Record Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Vaccine Name | Tdap (Boostrix), Hepatitis B, Typhoid |
| Date Received | Day / Month / Year |
| Dose Number | Dose 1, Dose 2, Booster |
| Lot / Batch Number | As printed on the card |
| Place of Vaccination | Hospital or center name |
| Next Due Date | When the booster is needed |
Easy ways to keep records
- Paper Card: Keep it in a file or lamination.
- Photo in mobile: Take a clear picture and save it in both the phone and the cloud.
- Digital Portal: Be sure to check your records where the official portal is available in your country.
- Family’s shared folder: Create separate folders for children, parents, and your records.
- Reminder: Set the next date of the booster in the mobile calendar.
Don’t worry if you don’t remember which vaccine you got. The doctor can assess the situation with the help of blood tests (antibody titers) or old school records, and also get a catch-up vaccination if needed.
Vaccine Side Effects and Safety
Like the vaccine, there may be some side effects, but they are often minor and temporary. Vaccines go through several phases of clinical trials and safety testing before being approved for general use, and continue to be monitored after that.
Common side-effects
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- a mild fever
- Fatigue or weakness.
- a headache
- Slight pain in the muscles or joints
- Anxiety and insomnia in children
Easy ways to get rid of them
- Keep a clean cold cloth at the place of vaccination.
- Drink more water and rest.
- Use the medicine as directed by the doctor for fever or pain. Do not give your child self-medication.
When to go to the doctor?
The following symptoms may be serious and require immediate medical attention:
- difficulty in breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat
- Rapid spread of rashes on the body
- a rapid heartbeat or choking
- a high fever that does not subside
- A baby crying for several hours.
Remember, severe allergies are very rare after vaccination, and that is why it is advised to sit in the center for 15 to 30 minutes after vaccination. If so, it can be treated immediately.
Common Myths vs Facts
Misconceptions are the biggest barrier to vaccination. Let’s look at some common facts.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Vaccines cause autism | Large studies across many countries have found no link between vaccines and autism |
| Natural infection is always better than a vaccine | Natural infection can cause serious complications or death; vaccines give protection without that risk |
| Too many vaccines overload a child’s immune system | A child’s immune system handles thousands of germs daily; scheduled vaccines are a tiny fraction of that |
| If diseases are rare, vaccines are no longer needed | Diseases return quickly when vaccination rates fall |
| Vaccines contain harmful amounts of chemicals | Ingredients are present in very small, tested, safe amounts |
| Healthy people do not need vaccines | Healthy people can get and spread serious infections too |
| Vaccines are 100% effective or useless | No vaccine is perfect, but they greatly reduce risk and severity |
How to avoid the misinformation?
- Don’t trust social media or WhatsApp.
- Trust only authoritative sources, such as the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) and authoritative doctors.
- If in doubt, ask your doctor.
Travel Vaccines
It is prudent to review the vaccine prior to travel, especially for areas where specific diseases are common.
| Destination / Purpose | Commonly Advised Vaccines |
|---|---|
| Hajj / Umrah (Saudi Arabia) | Meningococcal (ACWY), seasonal influenza, polio as required |
| Parts of Africa and South America | Yellow Fever |
| South and Southeast Asia | Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies (risk-based) |
| General travel | Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis booster, MMR check |
Always check your destination requirements with official sources or travel clinics, as conditions change over time.
Practical Tips for Parents
- Make a chart of the schedule: Immediately after the birth of the child, note the next dates on the vaccine card.
- Before vaccination: Give the child milk or food as directed, and wear comfortable clothes.
- During the vaccination: hold the baby comfortably in the lap, talk, smile. Children have the trust of their parents.
- Post-vaccination: Breastfeed or place the baby in the lap. It reduces pain and discomfort.
- Tell the doctor: If the child has had a reaction before, be sure to tell before the next dose.
- Don’t procrastinate on your own: Postponing vaccinations due to rumors can put a child at unnecessary risk.
- Take care of siblings: All members of the household should keep their vaccinations up-to-date so that the newborn is protected.
Questions (FAQs)Is it necessary to get vaccinated?
Legal requirements vary by country and region, but medical experts strongly recommend basic vaccines. It protects you and the people around you.
Q1: Boostrix should be applied after how many years?
According to the general guidance, adults need a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years. Each time during pregnancy, the doctor prescribes separately. Ask your doctor about your situation.
Q2: Is it safe to take multiple vaccines at the same time?
Most vaccines can be administered at the same time and are considered safe. The doctor decides the appropriate setting and location.
Q3: Is it possible to get a COVID-19 vaccination card if it is lost?
In general, yes. Copy or digital certificate can be obtained by contacting the vaccine center or government record system. The procedure may be different in each country and province.
Q4: Is a vaccination certificate valid in all countries?
Not necessary. Each country has its own rules. Some countries only accept certain formats or international certificates. Be sure to check the directions for the destination country before traveling.
Q5: What happens if a dose of vaccine is missed?
Don’t be afraid. Usually the series does not have to be restarted. The doctor will make a new schedule of the remaining doses.
Q6: Should adults, like children, keep a record of “my vaccine”?
Adult records are equally important. This applies to travel, employment, pregnancy, and medical emergencies.
Q7: Can a pregnant woman take Boostrix?
Yes, Tdap is recommended at the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy according to the guidelines of many countries. Get it done only after consulting your gynecologist.
Q: How many days after the vaccination does the effect begin?
Most vaccines can take a few weeks to give full protection. Some require multiple doses, so continue with caution until the series is complete.
Q8: How long does the vaccine last?
It depends on the vaccine. Some vaccines provide lifelong protection, while vaccines such as the flu or Tdap have to be repeated.
Conclusion
Vaccination is not just a vaccine, it is a wise investment in your family’s future. From basic childhood vaccines to adult boosters, from Tdap during pregnancy, to essential vaccines for travel, every step helps keep you and your loved ones safe from diseases.
A few important things to remember:
- Complete the vaccination schedule of children on time.
- Adults should also take care of their boosters, such as Tdap and the flu vaccine.
- Save the COVID-19 vaccination card and vaccination certificate, and also make a digital copy of it.
- Keep your vaccine record in one place.
- If there is a question about a booster vaccine such as Boostrix, consult a doctor directly.
- Take information from authentic sources instead of believing in rumors.
Check your or your child’s vaccine card today and if there are any doses or boosters left, contact your doctor or the nearest vaccination center. One small step can save you a lot of trouble.
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