Vaccines & Forgotten Diseases: How Immunization Keeps Deadly Illnesses Away

A few decades ago, diseases like polio, measles, diphtheria, and smallpox were among the deadliest threats to humanity. Today, many of these illnesses are rare—or even eradicated—thanks to the power of vaccines. Yet, “forgotten diseases” can re-emerge if vaccination rates fall. This is why immunization schedules and childhood vaccinations remain essential for public health.

At Vydehi Hospital, Bangalore, we emphasize the importance of timely immunization for children and adults. Our expert pediatricians and preventive health specialists guide families through the vaccination journey to ensure complete protection against life-threatening diseases.

What Are Vaccine-Preventable Diseases?

Vaccine-preventable diseases are infectious diseases that can be controlled, eliminated, or even eradicated through immunization. They include illnesses such as polio, measles, mumps, diphtheria, whooping cough, and hepatitis.

Forgotten Diseases and Their Vaccines

Here’s a list of some major diseases and their vaccines:

Without vaccines, millions of children would remain vulnerable to these deadly infections. Public health vaccinations not only protect individuals but also create herd immunity, reducing the risks of unvaccinated children being exposed to outbreaks.

At Vydehi Hospital, we regularly conduct immunization drives and awareness programs to highlight the role of vaccines in preventing these diseases.

• Polio – Polio vaccine (Oral Polio Vaccine / IPV)
• Diphtheria – DTP / DTaP vaccine
• Tetanus – Tetanus toxoid vaccine (TT)
• Whooping Cough (Pertussis) – DTP / DTaP vaccine
• Measles – Measles or MMR vaccine
• Mumps – MMR vaccine
• Rubella – MMR vaccine
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B vaccine
• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A vaccine
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) – Hib vaccine
• Pneumococcal disease – Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)
• Rotavirus – Rotavirus vaccine
• Chickenpox (Varicella) – Varicella vaccine
• Influenza (Flu) – Seasonal flu vaccine

• At Vydehi Hospital, all these vaccines are available as part of our comprehensive childhood vaccine schedule and adult immunization programs.

  Childhood Vaccinations in India

  India follows a Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) that provides free vaccines to children and pregnant women. The childhood vaccine schedule in India typically includes protection against:

  • At Birth: BCG, OPV (Polio), Hepatitis B
  • 6, 10 & 14 Weeks: DPT, OPV, Hepatitis B, Hib, Rotavirus, PCV
  • 9–12 Months: Measles-Rubella, PCV booster
  • 16–24 Months: DPT booster, OPV booster, MR second dose, Varicella
  • 4–6 Years: DPT booster, OPV booster, MMR second dose
  • Adolescents & Adults: Tetanus, HPV, Influenza, Hepatitis B (as needed)

  At Vydehi Hospital, Bangalore, our Pediatric and Preventive Health Departments ensure that children receive vaccines at the right age, in line with national and international guidelines.

  Why Are Vaccines Still Important?

  Even though many of these diseases are “forgotten” in daily life, they can return if vaccination coverage drops. Examples include:

  • Measles outbreaks in countries with declining vaccination rates.
  • Diphtheria cases re-emerging in parts of India and Southeast Asia.
  • Polio still present in a few countries, posing global risks.

  Vaccines ensure protection against forgotten diseases and keep future generations safe. Skipping doses or delaying the vaccine doses schedule increases the risks of unvaccinated children facing preventable illnesses.

  At Vydehi Hospital, we remind parents that missing even one scheduled dose can make children vulnerable. Our team provides vaccination reminders and personalized guidance to help families stay on track.

  Risks of Unvaccinated Children

  • Higher chances of catching and spreading infectious diseases.
  • Severe complications like paralysis (polio), brain damage (measles), or death (diphtheria, tetanus).
  • Greater burden on healthcare systems due to preventable outbreaks.

  This is why Vydehi Hospital strongly recommends timely immunization—it’s not only about protecting one child but also about safeguarding entire communities.

  Conclusion

  Vaccines have turned deadly, common diseases into rare or forgotten threats. They continue to save millions of lives every year by preventing vaccine-preventable childhood illnesses and protecting against deadly infectious diseases.

  At Vydehi Hospital, Bangalore, we are committed to raising awareness, ensuring access, and providing safe immunizations for children, adolescents, and adults.

  👉 Remember: Forgotten diseases can return. Vaccines keep them in the past. Protect your family—book your vaccination appointment at Vydehi Hospital today.

  Vydehi Hospital – Vaccination Services

  📍 Location: Vydehi Hospital, Bangalore – #82, Nallurahalli Main Rd, near BMTC 18th Depot, Vijayanagar, Nallurhalli, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560066
  👩‍⚕️ Services: Childhood vaccination, adult immunization, travel vaccines, HPV, flu shots, and preventive health clinics
  📞 Contact: 08049069000, 08061111111 | Patients Emergency : +91804125 9032, +91-80-49069000
  🌐 Book Online: https://vims.ac.in/book-appointment/ 

  FAQs on Vaccines & Forgotten Diseases 

  1. Which diseases are prevented by vaccines?
     Vaccines prevent diseases such as polio, diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis, chickenpox, influenza, pneumococcal infections, and rotavirus.
  2. What diseases are eradicated by vaccines?
     Smallpox has been eradicated worldwide. Polio is close to eradication but still exists in a few countries.
  3. What is the childhood vaccination schedule in India?
     Children in India are vaccinated against polio, measles, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis, rotavirus, pneumococcal infections, and more under the Universal Immunization Programme.
  4. Are vaccines safe for children?
     Yes. Vaccines are tested extensively for safety and effectiveness. Side effects are usually mild, such as fever or soreness at the injection site.
  5. Where can I get vaccinations in Bangalore?
     You can visit Vydehi Hospital, Bangalore, for all recommended childhood and adult vaccines, including flu shots, hepatitis vaccines, HPV vaccination, and travel-related immunizations.