What is the aim of the ICMR's research on flu and pneumococcal vaccines

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting research to determine the effectiveness of flu and pneumococcal vaccines in reducing respiratory infections and antimicrobial use among the elderly. Understand the objective of this research.
The aim of the ICMR's research on flu and pneumococcal vaccines includes the following objectives:
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of flu and pneumococcal vaccines in reducing respiratory infections: The research aims to determine the efficacy of these vaccines in preventing respiratory infections, especially among the elderly population. By studying the vaccinated group and comparing it with a control group, the researchers can analyze the reduction in respiratory infections and assess the protective effect of these vaccines.
  • Assessing the impact on antimicrobial use: The study also aims to examine how the administration of flu and pneumococcal vaccines affects the usage of antimicrobial drugs. By monitoring the vaccinated group, researchers can analyze if these vaccines reduce the need for antimicrobial treatment, helping in conserving antibiotics and tackling the issue of antimicrobial resistance.
  • Identifying breakthrough infections: The researchers aim to track any breakthrough infections that occur in the vaccinated group. By identifying cases of infection despite vaccination, they can gain insights into the limitations of these vaccines and potential areas of improvement.
  • Providing data for policy recommendations: The research seeks to generate robust data that can be used to inform policy decisions related to flu and pneumococcal vaccination. This data can help authorities determine vaccination strategies, prioritize vulnerable populations for vaccination, and enhance preventive healthcare measures.
Overall, the ICMR's research aims to contribute to better understanding the effectiveness of flu and pneumococcal vaccines, leading to improved public health outcomes and more targeted vaccination strategies.
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