A geriatrics immunisation centre was inaugurated by V Kanagasabai, the dean of Madras Medical College, at Kilpauk on Wednesday.
The centre, which will immunise senior citizens against influenza, pneumonia, hepatitis B, tetanus and typhoid, is the brainchild of V S Natrajan, a pioneer in the field of geriatrics in India.
Speaking at the inauguration, Kanagasabai spoke of the push towards literacy and healthcare after Independence. “After Independence, the average lifespan for an individual was limited to certain number of years. But now, thanks to Natrajan, the government can formulate policies aimed at helping senior citizens attain a ripe old age,” he said.
V S Natrajan said that it was necessary for senior citizens to at least immunise themselves against pneumonia and the influenza virus.
“Among seniors, communicable diseases are very difficult to pinpoint because of reduced immunity. So, in order to protect ourselves from these diseases, it is important that we prevent them from affecting us in the first place,” he added.
Natrajan also spoke of the need for a nutritious diet and advised people to stay away from over-the-counter drugs.