GMCH-32 Conducts Scientific Session on Adult Immunization; NAMS Cell Inaugurated
The Voice of Chandigarh
The Department of Community Medicine at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector-32, Chandigarh, in association with the IAAH Chandigarh Branch, organized a comprehensive scientific session today titled “Strengthening Adult Immunization and Geriatric Care in Healthcare Institutions: A Step towards Healthy Ageing”.
Held at the Academic E-Block, the event also marked a major academic milestone with the formal inauguration of the NAMS Cell – Chandigarh. The session saw active interdisciplinary engagement from resident doctors, nursing officers, paramedical staff, and MBBS students. The program was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Ravneet Kaur (Director Principal, GMCH-32), Guest of Honour Dr. Digambar Behera (NAMS President, Director of Pulmonary & Critical Care, Fortis Mohali), and Dr. Sonu Goel (State Convener of NAMS), Dr. Vishal Guglani (Medical Superintendent, GMCH-32), Dr. Sonia Puri (HOD, Department of Community Medicine, GMCH-32).
Various invited speakers included Dr. Rupali Verma Bagga (Department of Community Medicine, Gian Sagar Medical College), Dr. Seema Gulia (HOD, Department of Medical Oncology, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Punjab), Dr. Madhu Gupta (Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health PGIMER, Chandigarh), Dr. Manjeet Singh (District Immunisation officer-cum-District Family Welfare officer, GMSH-16, Chandigarh), Dr. Sanjay De Cruz (Professor & head, Department of general medicine, GMCH-32), Mr. Bhatnagar (President, Rotary Club, Chandigarh),Mr. Cheema (Rotary Club, Chandigarh) who were accompanied by other esteemed faculty members and speakers.
The scientific proceedings featured specialized lectures addressing the urgent need for adult vaccination in India. Dr. Rupali Verma Bagga (Gian Sagar Medical College) highlighted that ageing populations face higher risks of infectious diseases due to declining immunity and co-morbidities. She advocated for vaccines such as influenza, pneumococcal, herpes zoster, and hepatitis B to reduce mortality.
Dr. Seema Gulia (Department of Medical Oncology) discussed evolving evidence for HPV vaccination in adolescents and adults to prevent cervical cancer and other malignancies. Dr. Madhu Gupta explored innovative strategies for vaccine uptake, including digital health platforms, behavior change communication, and the strengthening of primary healthcare systems.
During panel discussion on India’s Readiness, a high-level panel, including Dr. Vishal Guglani, Dr. Manjeet Singh, and Dr. Suksham Jain, deliberated on the challenges of starting adult vaccination clinics and the need for dedicated clinics and improved surveillance systems.
The inauguration of the NAMS Cell, introduced by Dr. Sonia Puri, is intended to foster academic collaboration and research capacity among healthcare professionals.The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Dinesh Kumar Walia. This session reinforces GMCH-32’s commitment to public health advancement and the pursuit of “Healthy Ageing” through preventive care.
