Diseases: Vaccination

Vaccination is the introduction of a small dose of a disease-causing microorganism (a weakened or dead form) into the body to stimulate the immune system.
The immune system responds to vaccination by producing antibodies, which are proteins designed to fight off specific antigens (foreign substances).
These antibodies are produced by white blood cells known as lymphocytes.
Once these antibodies are created, the body is able to remember the specific antigens; this rapid response is called immunity. As a result, if the same microorganism enters the body again, the immune system can respond quickly and effectively.
The process of vaccination boosts immunity and helps to prevent future infections from the same disease.
Some vaccines provide lifelong protection, whereas others may need ‘booster’ shots to maintain immunity.
Vaccination can stop the spread of certain diseases within a population, resulting in herd immunity. If a large percentage of a population is vaccinated, it can prevent the disease from being transmitted to those who are not.
Vaccination has been instrumental in combating infectious diseases, resulting in the eradication of smallpox and significantly reducing instances of diseases such as polio, measles, and mumps.
However, there can be some controversies surrounding vaccination. Some individuals are allergic to certain vaccine components, and there can be rare side effects.
Ethics can also play a role in vaccination debates, with some individuals questioning the right of a government to enforce vaccination on its population.
Regardless of the controversies, scientific consensus supports vaccination as an effective and important tool in public health.