Infectious diseases and prevention – which vaccines are available?
Infectious diseases are constantly present among us. With autumn comes a season when infections spread more easily, as we spend more time indoors, immunity weakens, and the risk of infection increases. Some diseases are mild, while others can cause serious complications or even be life-threatening. They are most often transmitted through the air, droplets, contaminated surfaces, or bodily fluids. In addition to proper hygiene, vaccination is an effective protection that strengthens the immune system and significantly reduces the risk of infection and complications.
Vaccination as the most effective prevention
The most effective protection against infectious diseases is vaccination. A vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies and to recognize and destroy the pathogen before the disease develops.
During vaccination, either very weakened or inactivated forms of viruses or bacteria are introduced into the body, which do not cause illness by themselves. Their purpose is to teach the immune system how to recognize the pathogen and develop protective antibodies. If you later encounter the actual infection, the body will recognize and neutralize it quickly. The disease will either not develop at all or will occur in a much milder form.
In simple terms, a vaccine prepares the body for exposure to disease and significantly reduces the risk of complications. Because some viruses, such as influenza, constantly change, it is important to renew or boost some vaccinations regularly.
Most common diseases and prevention through vaccination
The most common infectious diseases that can be prevented through vaccination include influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis A and B, meningococcal infections, diphtheria, and rubella. These illnesses vary in severity and symptoms, but all can lead to serious health complications. Regular vaccination is the most effective form of prevention, protecting not only individuals but also the wider community.
Influenza
Influenza is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease. It manifests as sudden fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and a dry cough. While most healthy people recover within one to two weeks, some may experience complications such as pneumonia, worsening of chronic conditions, or hospitalization. It spreads through the air, especially via droplets when coughing, sneezing, or even speaking. Infection can also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces. Annual vaccination is recommended because influenza viruses constantly mutate. Regular vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.
COVID-19
The disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus can range from mild, resembling a cold, to severe cases requiring hospitalization, with the risk of long-term complications (post-COVID syndrome). It spreads through droplets, aerosols, and contaminated surfaces. It is highly contagious, especially in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation. Vaccination provides the most reliable protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
Hepatitis A & B
Hepatitis is an infectious liver disease caused by different types of hepatitis viruses. Hepatitis A usually has an acute course, while hepatitis B can become chronic and lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Type A spreads through contaminated water, food, and poor hygiene. Type B spreads mainly through blood and bodily fluids, sexual contact, or the use of unsterile needles. The hepatitis B vaccine is part of the Czech childhood immunization schedule, while for adults it is recommended especially for travelers, healthcare workers, and high-risk groups. Vaccination is essential as it protects against a disease with potentially lifelong consequences.
Meningococcal disease
The bacterium Neisseria meningitidis can cause meningitis or sepsis. These conditions develop very rapidly and can be fatal. Children and young adults are most at risk. The bacteria are transmitted mainly via droplets from coughing or sneezing. An infected person may show no symptoms but can still spread the bacteria. Vaccination protects against these serious consequences, which can occur within just a few hours. Timely vaccination can literally save lives.
Diphtheria
A serious bacterial disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It produces a toxin that can damage the heart, nerves, and airways. It spreads through the air via droplets and less frequently by touching contaminated objects. In the Czech Republic, it is part of childhood vaccination, but booster doses in adulthood are essential. In the past, diphtheria was a common cause of child mortality. Today, thanks to vaccination, it is rare in the Czech Republic, but the risk of re-emergence exists if vaccination coverage declines. Regular boosters are key to maintaining community protection.
Rubella
A viral disease that usually has a mild course in children, with symptoms including rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. However, in pregnant women it can cause serious birth defects in the fetus. It spreads mainly through droplets when coughing or sneezing. Contagiousness begins several days before the rash appears. Vaccination protects individuals and entire communities and is a critical preventive measure against these risks.
Other diseases
Other diseases that can be prevented through vaccination at Unicare include rabies, typhoid fever, human papillomavirus (HPV), and tetanus. Each of these illnesses can have serious consequences, which is why it makes sense to consult with your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.
An overview of diseases and available vaccination options is summarized in the following table.
Which vaccines are available?
| Disease: | Vaccine: | Indicated for: |
| Covid - 19 | Comirnaty LP.8.1 | Children from 12 years, adults |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis | Boostrix | Children from 4 years, adults (booster) |
| Diphtheria, tetanus, Pertussis, Polio | Adacel polio | Children from 3 years, adults |
| Hepatitis A | Vaqta Adult | Adults from 18 years |
| Hepatitis A & B | Twinrix Adult | Adults from 16 years |
| HPV | Gargasil 9 | Children from 9 years |
| Influenza | Vaxigrip | Children from 6 months, adults |
| Meningococcal | Nimenrix | Children from 6 weeks, adults |
| MMR | M-M-RvaxPro | Children from 9 months, adults without immunity |
| Rabies | Verorab | Children and adults, pre- and post-expousre |
| Tetanus | Tetavax | All age groups |
| Typhoid Fever | Typhim VI | Children from 2 years, adults |
When to get vaccinated?
The timing of vaccination influences its effectiveness. Some vaccines are recommended at specific times of the year, while others can be administered practically at any time. A typical example is vaccination against influenza and COVID-19, which is most effective in autumn, ideally between September and November, before the peak season begins. However, vaccination is still beneficial later, as long as viruses continue to circulate in the population.
For other infections, such as hepatitis A and B, meningococcal disease, diphtheria, or rubella, vaccination is not tied to a specific season. In these cases, it is advisable to protect yourself as early as possible, especially if you belong to a risk group, such as young children, seniors, people with chronic illnesses, or travelers. Some vaccinations require regular boosters to ensure long-term protection, such as those against tetanus, pertussis, or meningococcal disease.
If you plan to travel abroad, it is important to think about vaccination well in advance. Some vaccines are given in multiple doses, spaced weeks to months apart. In practice, influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are best administered in autumn, while other vaccinations can be arranged throughout the year, depending on current needs and your doctor’s recommendation.
How to book your vaccination appointment?
At Unicare, you can book your vaccination in several ways:
- By phone: +420 235 356 553
- By email: reception@unicare.cz
- Through the online form available on our website:
https://www.unicare.cz/making-an-appointment/
After submitting your request, we will contact you with available dates.
If you are interested in vaccination, do not hesitate to contact us. We will gladly answer any questions and find a suitable appointment for you.
Book today and strengthen your protection against infectious diseases.
Resources:
National Institute of Public Health (Státní zdravotní ústav, SZÚ). Basic Information on Infections within the Framework of Vaccination in the Czech Republic I [online]. Available at: https://szu.gov.cz/temata-zdravi-a-bezpecnosti/vakciny-a-ockovani/informace-o-infekcich-v-ramci-ockovani-v-cr-i/
National Institute of Public Health (Státní zdravotní ústav, SZÚ). Basic Information on Infections within the Framework of Vaccination in the Czech Republic II [online]. Available at: https://szu.gov.cz/temata-zdravi-a-bezpecnosti/vakciny-a-ockovani/zakladni-informace-o-infekcich-v-ramci-ockovani-v-cr-ii/
Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic (Ministerstvo zdravotnictví ČR). Information on Available Vaccines [online, updated]. Available at: https://mzd.gov.cz/informace-o-dostupnych-vakcinach/