Disease prevention by vaccination against infectious diseases and in particular viral infections has been one of the greatest successes in medicine. Protection against lesions that are induced by genetically related non-vaccine types was reported most likely due to cross-neutralizing antibodies. While natural immunity is weak and only transient, vaccination has been shown to induce a sustained high immune response.
Vaccines definition
The body’s immune system helps protect against pathogens that cause infection. Most of the time, it is an efficient system. It either keeps microorganisms out or tracks them down and gets rid of them. However, some pathogens can overwhelm the immune system. When this happens, it can cause serious illness.
The pathogens most likely to cause problems are the ones the body does not recognize. Vaccination is a way to “teach” the immune system how to recognize and eliminate an organism. That way, your body is prepared if you are ever exposed.
Vaccinations are an important form of primary prevention. That means they can protect people from getting sick. Vaccinations have allowed us to control diseases that threatened many lives.
How does vaccination work?
A healthy immune system defends against invaders. The immune system is composed of several types of cells. These cells defend against and remove harmful pathogens. However, they must recognize that an invader is dangerous. Vaccination teaches the body to recognize new diseases. It stimulates the body to make antibodies against antigens of pathogens. It also primes immune cells to remember the types of antigens that cause infection. That allows for a faster response to the disease in the future. When the body responds to the vaccine, it builds an adaptive immune response. This helps equip the body to fight off an actual infection.
Vaccines are usually given by injection. Most vaccines contain two parts. The first is the antigen. This is the piece of the disease your body must learn to recognize. The second is the adjuvant, which sends a danger signal to your body. It helps your immune system to respond more strongly against the antigen as an infection. This helps you develop immunity.
Are vaccinations safe?
Vaccines are safe since they are rigorously tested and go through many rounds of study, examination, and research before they are used with the general public.
The overwhelming bulk of research and evidence shows that vaccines are safe and that side effects are rare. Side effects that do occur are typically mild.
Indeed, the greatest risk for most individuals will come if you choose not to get a vaccine and potentially get sick after exposure to a disease. The illness may be far worse than the potential side effects of the vaccine. It could even be deadly.