Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College Hospital and Research Centre (SVMCHRC) hosted a highly successful Continuing Medical Education (CME) session on Adult Vaccination on August 8th, 2024. Organized by the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of General Medicine, and the Medical Education Unit (MEU), the CME brought together esteemed medical professionals, faculty, and students, reflecting the institution's commitment to continuing education in the ever-evolving field of medicine. The event was held at the Sai Lecture Theatre, SVMCHRC College Block, with the aim to enhance the understanding of vaccination protocols, particularly in the adult population, which has become more pertinent in the post-pandemic era.

Event Inauguration and Welcome Address

The program commenced with a formal inauguration and welcome address by Dr. Srinivasan Ammulu.

Key Sessions and Speakers

The CME was structured into a series of sessions delivered by distinguished speakers who shared their knowledge on critical aspects of adult vaccination. The key topics included immunogenic responses, contraindications, special considerations during pregnancy, and the role of new vaccines.

1. Immunogenicity in Adults: How is it Different from Children?

Speaker: Dr. Lavanya, Professor of Pathology
Dr. Lavanya’s presentation focused on the biological differences in immune responses between adults and children, an area crucial for practitioners to understand when administering vaccines.

2. Contraindications to Vaccination

Speaker: Dr. Shaheen, Senior Resident, Obstetrics & Gynecology
In her session, Dr. Shaheen explored the circumstances in which vaccinations should be avoided or delayed, with a focus on conditions such as autoimmune disorders, allergies, and the use of certain medications.

3. Vaccination During Pregnancy

Speaker: Dr. Sindhujha, Associate Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Dr. Sindhujha provided a comprehensive overview of the recommended vaccines for pregnant women, such as the influenza and Tdap vaccines, which protect both the mother and the baby. She also discussed emerging guidelines about COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, detailing the latest research on safety and efficacy.

4. HPV Vaccination

Speaker: Dr. Indu N.R., Assistant Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology
Dr. Indu N.R. focused on the role of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical and other HPV-related cancers. She discussed the importance of promoting HPV vaccination in adults, especially for women who missed the vaccine in their teenage years.

Mid-Morning Break and Continued Sessions

5. Indian Consensus Guidelines on Adult Immunization

Speaker: Dr. Suresh, Professor & Head of the Department, Medicine
Dr. Suresh's session focused on the consensus guidelines formulated by Indian health authorities, which aim to standardize adult immunization practices across the country.

6. Newer Vaccines: COVID-19 and Pneumococcal

Speaker: Dr. Kalaiyarasan, Associate Professor, Respiratory Medicine
Dr. Kalaiyarasan explored the development and administration of newer vaccines, with a focus on the COVID-19 vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines. He discussed the unique challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how vaccines played a critical role in curbing the spread of the virus. His session also touched upon the ongoing need for pneumococcal vaccines in preventing respiratory diseases, especially in older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses.

7. Vaccination Schedule as Per Age

Speaker: Dr. S. Subbulakshmi, Senior Resident, Medicine
Dr. Subbulakshmi's presentation outlined the appropriate vaccination schedules based on age.

Post-Lunch Sessions

8. Vaccination for Travelers

Speaker: Dr. Rammohan, Senior Resident, Medicine
Dr. Rammohan provided a detailed guide on vaccines required for international travelers.

9. Vaccination for Immunocompromised Individuals

Speaker: Dr. Razook, Assistant Professor, Medicine
Dr. Razook emphasized the complexity of vaccinating immunocompromised patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV.

Closing Remarks and Interactive Sessions

The workshop also included an interactive Quiz session conducted by all registered students, which fostered an engaging learning environment. The quiz covered key topics discussed throughout the day, allowing participants to test their knowledge and reinforcing key takeaways from the CME.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Sri Saranya, Assistant Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology, who expressed gratitude to the organizing committee, the esteemed speakers, and the enthusiastic participants. She also highlighted the CME’s role in strengthening the medical community's knowledge on the critical subject of adult vaccination.