How do vaccines work to protect against disease?

Vaccines are a critical tool in preventing infectious diseases by stimulating the immune system to build immunity against specific pathogens. When a vaccine is administered, it contains either weakened or inactivated forms of the pathogen, or specific parts of the pathogen such as proteins or sugars. This exposure triggers the immune system to produce antibodies and activate immune cells that recognize and attack the pathogen.

Immune Response

Upon encountering the pathogen in the vaccine, the immune system mounts a response by creating memory cells that "remember" the pathogen. If the individual is later exposed to the actual pathogen, the immune system can quickly recognize and mount a robust response to eliminate the invader before it causes illness.

Vaccine Types

There are different types of vaccines, including live attenuated vaccines, inactivated vaccines, subunit, conjugate, and mRNA vaccines. Each type works by training the immune system to recognize and defend against specific pathogens, providing varying levels of protection.

Vaccine Effectiveness and Safety

Vaccines have been instrumental in reducing the burden of infectious diseases worldwide and are considered safe and effective. Continuous research and development efforts aim to improve vaccine mechanisms and increase protection against a broad range of viral and bacterial infections.