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Kolkata is witnessing a sharp rise in demand for pneumonia and influenza vaccines as respiratory infections continue to climb with the onset of winter. The rush is especially high among the elderly, prompting private hospitals and clinics to increase vaccination slots to avoid long queues.
Health specialists say the trend has been building since mid-November, with several hospitals reporting a significant increase in the number of people seeking vaccines, particularly those already dealing with chronic respiratory issues.
Why the Elderly Are Being Urged to Take Both Vaccines
The pneumonia vaccine is taken only once and is believed to offer protection for several years, while influenza vaccines are administered annually. Doctors say winter makes people more vulnerable to respiratory infections, and early vaccination is one of the most effective preventive measures.
According to Peerless Hospital chief microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chowdhury, temperature swings and pollution have triggered a surge in viruses that pose serious threats to high-risk individuals. As per TOI, he advised that those above 60 and people with asthma, lung diseases or structural lung issues should consider both vaccines.
Hospitals Report Jump in Vaccination Numbers
Multiple Kolkata hospitals are recording a steep spike in vaccine uptake:
Charnock Hospital said the demand rises every year right before winter.
As per TOI, pulmonology head Soumya Sengupta stated that they recommend three vaccines, pneumonia, influenza and DTP, during this season due to the rise in respiratory illness.
Woodlands Hospital reported a 55% rise in pneumonia and influenza vaccine administration between 2024 and 2025.
According to TOI, consultant pulmonologist Sandip Mandal said the vaccines help prevent serious infections and hospitalisation, while offering 60–70% protection against flu.
BP Poddar Hospital has noted nearly a 20% increase in vaccine receivers compared to last year.
As per TOI, group advisor Supriyo Chakrabarty urged patients to book early due to high demand.
The growing trend is further reflected at BP Poddar Chest Clinic, which is now receiving 20–25 new respiratory patients daily.
Techno India DAMA Hospital has also reported a robust spike.
According to TOI, consultant pulmonologist Abhishek Kolay highlighted that those above 50, especially individuals suffering from asthma, COPD, heart disease or low immunity, gain the most from timely vaccination.
Rising Infections Push Vaccination Demand Higher
While flu and pneumonia cases are historically known to rise during winter, doctors say this season has seen infections appear earlier and spread faster. With both pollution and weather fluctuations aggravating respiratory problems, the elderly and high-risk patients are choosing vaccination as a precaution rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.
Experts Warn: Don’t Delay
Medical experts strongly advise winter vaccination for anyone vulnerable to lung infections, especially senior citizens. Hospitals are urging people to get vaccinated sooner rather than later to avoid last-minute rush.
Inputs from TOI
Health specialists say the trend has been building since mid-November, with several hospitals reporting a significant increase in the number of people seeking vaccines, particularly those already dealing with chronic respiratory issues.
Why the Elderly Are Being Urged to Take Both Vaccines
The pneumonia vaccine is taken only once and is believed to offer protection for several years, while influenza vaccines are administered annually. Doctors say winter makes people more vulnerable to respiratory infections, and early vaccination is one of the most effective preventive measures.According to Peerless Hospital chief microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chowdhury, temperature swings and pollution have triggered a surge in viruses that pose serious threats to high-risk individuals. As per TOI, he advised that those above 60 and people with asthma, lung diseases or structural lung issues should consider both vaccines.
Hospitals Report Jump in Vaccination Numbers
Multiple Kolkata hospitals are recording a steep spike in vaccine uptake:Charnock Hospital said the demand rises every year right before winter.
As per TOI, pulmonology head Soumya Sengupta stated that they recommend three vaccines, pneumonia, influenza and DTP, during this season due to the rise in respiratory illness.
Woodlands Hospital reported a 55% rise in pneumonia and influenza vaccine administration between 2024 and 2025.
According to TOI, consultant pulmonologist Sandip Mandal said the vaccines help prevent serious infections and hospitalisation, while offering 60–70% protection against flu.
BP Poddar Hospital has noted nearly a 20% increase in vaccine receivers compared to last year.
As per TOI, group advisor Supriyo Chakrabarty urged patients to book early due to high demand.
The growing trend is further reflected at BP Poddar Chest Clinic, which is now receiving 20–25 new respiratory patients daily.
Techno India DAMA Hospital has also reported a robust spike.
According to TOI, consultant pulmonologist Abhishek Kolay highlighted that those above 50, especially individuals suffering from asthma, COPD, heart disease or low immunity, gain the most from timely vaccination.Rising Infections Push Vaccination Demand Higher
While flu and pneumonia cases are historically known to rise during winter, doctors say this season has seen infections appear earlier and spread faster. With both pollution and weather fluctuations aggravating respiratory problems, the elderly and high-risk patients are choosing vaccination as a precaution rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.Experts Warn: Don’t Delay
Medical experts strongly advise winter vaccination for anyone vulnerable to lung infections, especially senior citizens. Hospitals are urging people to get vaccinated sooner rather than later to avoid last-minute rush.Inputs from TOI
