Vaccination

  • Vaccination refers to the process of providing immunity against infectious diseases through the use of vaccines.
  • Vaccines contain weakened, inactive, or parts of the pathogen (germs that cause diseases) that allow the body to produce an immune response.
  • When injected or ingested, these foreign bodies cause the body’s immune system to recognise them as threats, even though they are not capable of causing disease.
  • The immune system reacts by producing specific antibodies to fight off these foreign bodies. This is also known as the body’s adaptive immune response.
  • After exposure to the vaccine, the immune system also produces memory cells. These cells remember the specific pathogens so that if the body encounters the same pathogen in the future, the immune system can quickly produce the necessary antibodies to fight it off.
  • A majority of vaccines need multiple doses to be effective. The first shot helps the immune system recognise the virus, and subsequent shots help to reinforce the immune response.
  • Vaccinations are crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases within a population, a concept known as herd immunity. High vaccination rates within a population reduce the risk of epidemics.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health agencies recommend routine vaccinations to prevent diseases such as measles, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, and tuberculosis.
  • Contrary to misconceptions, vaccinations do not cause diseases or disorders they aim to protect against. Side effects, if any, are mostly minor and temporary.
  • It’s important to remember that no vaccine is 100% effective. Hence, maintaining good health habits, hygiene, and prevention practises are still necessary.
  • Not all individuals can be vaccinated due to health issues, allergies, age, or vulnerable groups like the immunocompromised and elderly. For these individuals, herd immunity is crucial.
  • It’s important for individuals to be fully aware of their vaccination history and maintain an up-to-date vaccination record.
  • The development and distribution of vaccines on a large scale is a complex and rigorous process involving comprehensive testing, quality control, and continuous monitoring for safety and effectiveness.