Response to “Adult Immunization Policy in Korea”

Dear Editor:

We read the review entitled- “Adult Immunization Policy in Korea” with great interest. It suggests that immunization is a highly effective and cost-effective method for preventing infectious diseases [1]. While this paper provides a thorough exploration of the significance of immunization and the challenges in implementing adult vaccination policies, in our opinion, it could be further improved by incorporating the below mentioned points.

Methodology: The review lacks details on its methodology, making it difficult to understand how articles were selected and criteria were applied (for example-PRISMA guidelines) in the review process.

Cultural and social context: The paper misses exploring cultural and social factors influencing adult vaccination in Korea, a crucial aspect for effective policy development.

Limited policy recommendations: The paper, highlighting adult vaccination challenges, should provide specific policy recommendations for enhanced utility.

In-depth economic analysis: Though the paper notes adult vaccination cost-effectiveness, it lacks detailed economic analysis, e.g., cost-benefit, cost minimization, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. More in-depth economic assessments and models are needed for a clearer understanding of financial implications in implementing an adult immunization program.

Future outlook: The paper is ideal for discussing crucial future trends in vaccines, infectious diseases, and healthcare policies, essential for a forward-looking perspective, including insights from COVID-19 vaccine implementation in Korea.

Political influence: The paper mentions the susceptibility of adult vaccination to political influence but does not delve into this aspect in depth. A more comprehensive analysis of the political and regulatory challenges would provide a well-rounded perspective.

Public perception: Public perception of adult vaccination varies based on cultural beliefs, education, healthcare access, and personal vaccine experiences. While childhood vaccinations are widely acknowledged for their role in disease prevention, adult vaccination may not receive equal attention. Some individuals, particularly those with underlying health conditions, proactively seek recommended vaccinations. However, others may not prioritize adult vaccines due to limited awareness, misconceptions, or a belief that vaccines are mainly for children. Mentioning public acceptance of adult vaccination would have provided a clearer understanding of this issue.

In conclusion, while the paper offers valuable insights into the importance of adult immunization and the specific situation in Korea, addressing these limitations would bolster its overall impact and relevance for a wider audience and for informing policy decisions.